How can we apply the example of following Jesus from Matthew 4:25? Setting the Scene: Matthew 4:25 “Large crowds from Galilee, the Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea, and beyond the Jordan followed Him.” Why This Moment Matters • Scripture faithfully records real people, real places, and a real response to the living Christ. • The crowds didn’t merely admire Jesus; they physically moved toward Him. Their example still speaks. Key Principles for Modern Disciples • Pursue proximity: Draw near to Jesus through His Word and Spirit just as they drew near in person. • Leave comfort zones: Crossing regional and cultural boundaries (Galilee to beyond the Jordan) models intentional change. • Join the community: Following involved traveling together; faith thrives in fellowship (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Recognize urgency: They followed immediately after Jesus’ call to “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near” (Matthew 4:17). Practical Ways to Follow Today 1. Schedule daily, unhurried time in the Gospels—treat it as movement toward Christ. 2. Participate actively in a Bible-believing local church; worship and serve alongside others. 3. Engage in intentional acts of obedience—share the gospel, show mercy, forgive quickly. 4. Cross cultural or social divides in Jesus’ name—serve neighbors outside your normal circle. 5. Simplify life to make room for kingdom priorities, echoing the crowds who left routines behind. Encouragement from Related Passages • John 10:27—“My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.” • Luke 9:23—“If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me.” • 1 Peter 2:21—“To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His footsteps.” A Final Charge Just as whole regions converged on Jesus, choose today to move heart, mind, and body toward Him. Follow closely, follow together, and keep following—confident that the same Savior who drew multitudes then still leads faithfully now. |
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