Why follow Jesus across cultures?
Why is it important to follow Jesus despite cultural or regional differences?

Setting the Scene

“Large crowds from Galilee, the Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea, and beyond the Jordan followed Him.” (Matthew 4:25)

These regions represent Jews, Gentiles, urban dwellers, rural villagers, Greek speakers, Aramaic speakers—people whose cultures seldom blended. Yet they all came after one Man.


One Lord, Many Regions

• Jesus drew people who spoke different languages and held different customs, proving His message transcends geography.

• Salvation is not tied to a passport stamp; it is tied to the Person of Christ (John 14:6).

• Prophecy had always pointed to a worldwide kingdom (Isaiah 49:6); the diverse crowd shows that promise beginning to bloom.


Why Following Jesus Still Matters Across Cultures

• Universal need, universal cure

– “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).

– One sacrifice, once for all (Hebrews 10:10).

• One Shepherd, one flock

– “I have other sheep that are not of this fold… there will be one flock and one shepherd.” (John 10:16).

• Breaking down walls

– “He Himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has torn down the dividing wall of hostility.” (Ephesians 2:14).

• Shared identity

– “There is neither Jew nor Greek… for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Galatians 3:28).

• Global witness

– Diverse disciples broadcast a unified message: Jesus saves. Heaven will echo this: “A great multitude… from every nation, tribe, people, and tongue.” (Revelation 7:9).

• Kingdom citizenship outranks earthly citizenship

– “Our citizenship is in heaven.” (Philippians 3:20). Allegiance to Christ guides believers when cultural expectations clash with Scripture.


Scripture Snapshots That Underscore the Point

Acts 17:26-27—One bloodline, one Creator, all called to seek Him.

Matthew 28:19—Commanded to make disciples of all nations, implying the gospel fits every culture.

Colossians 1:13—Rescued from the domain of darkness into the kingdom of the Son—singular transfer, regardless of background.


Practical Takeaways

• Hold convictions from Scripture above cultural norms.

• Celebrate cultural variety as evidence of Christ’s wide embrace.

• Use differences as bridges for the gospel, not barriers.

• Anchor identity first in Christ; let everything else orbit that center.

How does Matthew 4:25 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19?
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