All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” -2 Timothy 3:16-17
I’ve been in the “information” business since my mid-twenties (close to twenty years now). I’ve spoken in countless ballrooms, in countless towns, across countless state lines. I have promoted systems, products, brands and companies all built to help people achieve success in real estate and because of this, I’ve also created a fan base. When marketing, you want raving fans who will spread the word like wild fire and bring in more people who will, if all goes according to plan, become raving fans in their own right.
Now, although I like the fans, I’ve come to realize over the years that I would prefer followers. Let me explain.
Fans may sit in the front row, take notes, nod in agreement, buy products, applaud the loudest, and even want an autograph, or a picture or two. But when they get home, the excitement wears off, the desire to change and improve wanes, and they return to their same ol’, same ol’ routine. A follower doesn’t just listen, they learn. They internalize what I teach and then they go home and put it into action. They take my step-by-step system and follow it from A-to-Z and because they do that, their life changes and their goals become a reality. That’s the person I want. The adopter, the follower, and the action-taker.
That’s what Jesus wanted too. The pastor Kyle Idleman said it this way, “Jesus was never interested in enthusiastic admirers; he wanted completely committed followers. He wants more from us than a hand raised or a prayer repeated at the end the service. He is looking for more than a prayer before a meal and a Jesus fish on the back of the car. He wants more than fans; he wants followers.”
He doesn’t want the fan that loves the Lord only on Sunday. He wants you and me to be all-in, all the time. He wants you and me to be committed and ready to take action and sacrifice when necessary. He wants us not just to hear about His system and His plan, He wants us to adopt it into our daily lives.
And when you do, He promises you that your present will be transformed and your future will be eternal. This means that although following Jesus isn’t easy, it is ALWAYS rewarding.
So, ask yourself today, “Am I a fan or a follower of Jesus?” You’ll find the answer in everything you do and say.
