Following Jesus is more than a one-time decision—it’s a lifelong journey of faith and obedience. Today, we’ll discover what the Bible says about being a disciple and walking closely with Christ every day.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Sexual Sin
What Does The Bible Say About Following Jesus
1. Matthew 16:24-25
“Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of self-denial and taking up one’s cross to follow Jesus. It reminds us that true discipleship requires a willingness to sacrifice our own desires and ambitions for the sake of Christ. In doing so, we find true life and purpose in Him.
2. Luke 9:23
“Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”
This verse reinforces the previous message and adds the element of daily commitment. As followers of Jesus, we are called to continually deny ourselves, carry our cross, and faithfully follow Him each day. It is an ongoing surrender of our will to His.
3. John 10:27
“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.”
As Jesus describes Himself as the Good Shepherd, He assures us that His true followers will recognize and listen to His voice. Following Jesus means being attentive to His leading and guidance in our lives.
4. John 12:26
“Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me.”
To serve Jesus is to follow Him. When we choose to serve Him, we align ourselves with His purposes and mission. And as we faithfully serve Him, God promises to honor us.
5. John 13:35
“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
Love is a powerful testimony of our discipleship. As followers of Jesus, we are called to love one another unconditionally. This kind of love should be a distinguishing mark that reflects our relationship with Him.
6. John 14:6
“Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
Following Jesus means recognizing and acknowledging Him as the only way to salvation and eternal life. He is the ultimate truth and the source of abundant life. Our faith in Him directs our path.
7. John 21:22
“Jesus answered, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.”
When Jesus reinstates Peter after his denial, He reminds him that it is not our place to compare or worry about the journeys of others. Our focus should be on faithfully following Him, regardless of what others are called to do.
8. Acts 9:6
“Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”
When Saul encounters Jesus on the road to Damascus, he is given a clear command to follow. Following Jesus often requires taking the next step of obedience, even when we may not fully understand or see the whole picture.
9. Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Following Jesus involves a radical transformation of our minds and hearts. It calls us to reject the ways of the world and align ourselves with God’s will. Through this transformation, we can accurately discern and pursue His perfect plan for our lives.
10. Galatians 2:20
“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
Following Jesus means identifying with His crucifixion and resurrection. It involves dying to our own self-centered desires and allowing Christ to live through us. Our lives are now defined by faith in His sacrificial love.
11. Ephesians 5:1-2
“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”
As children of God, we are called to imitate Him in our daily lives. Following Jesus involves walking in love, selflessly giving ourselves for the benefit of others, just as Christ did for us.
12. Philippians 3:14
“I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
Following Jesus means pursuing the goal of heavenly citizenship. It requires a determined effort to keep our focus on Christ, continually growing in our relationship with Him, and striving to fulfill His purposes for our lives.
13. 1 Peter 2:21
“To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.”
Jesus set an example for us through His suffering and sacrificial love. As His followers, we are called to emulate His life, character, and actions, reflecting His grace and love to the world.
14. 1 John 2:6
“Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.”
Living in Christ requires us to live as He did. It calls us to embody His teachings, values, and attitudes in our daily lives. Our actions should align with His example.
15. 1 John 3:16
“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.”
Jesus demonstrated the ultimate act of love by sacrificing Himself for us. Following His example, we are called to lay down our lives for the sake of others, showing selfless love and compassion to all.
16. 1 John 2:3-6
“We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. But if anyone obeys his word, love for God is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in him: Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.”
Our obedience to God’s commands is evidence of our genuine relationship with Him. If we claim to know Him but do not follow His teachings, our faith is empty. True followers of Jesus strive to live in obedience to His Word, revealing their love for Him.
17. James 1:22
“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”
Following Jesus goes beyond just hearing His Word; it requires putting it into action. We are called to be doers of His Word, allowing it to transform and guide our lives.
18. James 2:17
“In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”
True faith is displayed through action. Following Jesus means living out our faith in practical ways, demonstrating His love and compassion to those around us.
19. 1 Corinthians 11:1
“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”
The apostle Paul encourages the Corinthian believers to follow his example as he follows the example of Christ. Following Jesus involves finding godly role models who can guide us on our own journey of discipleship.
20. Hebrews 12:1-2
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him, he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
Following Jesus requires perseverance and a determination to keep our focus on Him. We are encouraged to let go of anything that hinders us and to fix our eyes on Jesus, who endured the cross for our sake.
21. Revelation 14:4
“These are those who did not defile themselves with women, for they remained virgins. They follow the Lamb wherever he goes. They were purchased from among mankind and offered as firstfruits to God and the Lamb.”
These verses speak of a specific group of devoted followers who remain faithful to Jesus. Following the Lamb wherever He goes indicates a complete surrender and obedience to His leading.
22. Psalm 25:4-5
“Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.”
Following Jesus requires humility and a teachable heart. We acknowledge our dependence on Him to show us His ways, guide us in His truth, and be the source of our hope each day.
23. Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Following Jesus involves entrusting our lives completely to Him. We are urged to rely on His wisdom rather than our own, surrendering every aspect of our lives to His guidance. In doing so, He promises to direct our paths.
24. Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Following Jesus means placing our trust in Him and surrendering our fears and anxieties. He assures us of His presence, strength, and guidance, promising to support and uphold us in His righteous hand.
25. Joshua 1:9
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
As Joshua prepared to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, God reminded him of the importance of courage and trust. Following Jesus requires us to be strong and courageous, knowing that He is always with us, no matter where our journey takes us.
Following Jesus is not merely an intellectual acknowledgement; it is a life-transforming commitment. These verses remind us that being a true disciple involves self-denial, obedience, love, perseverance, and trust. It is a journey that requires surrendering our own desires and ambitions, taking up our cross daily, and fixing our eyes on Christ as we walk in His footsteps. May these words inspire us to wholeheartedly follow Jesus and experience the abundant life and purpose He offers.