In social media, people want you to follow them. What is their reason? They wish to attract followers so that they can get more ‘hits’ and their popularity can increase. The more people click on your links, the more famous you become. Some people go to extreme measures to gain attention. It’s like an ego contest to outwit and outsmart the ‘opponent’, no matter the costs. Sensationalism is the buzzword and reputation often sits in the backseat.
When Jesus said to His disciples, ‘Follow Me’, what did He mean? What did He have to offer them? Rather, what were their expectations of what He had to offer them? History tells us that the Jews were living in anticipation of the Messiah – the One who would rescue them from Roman oppression and set up their own kingdom. When Jesus was born, wise men travelled to Jerusalem and asked King Herod, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him”(Matthew 2:2) When they found Him, they presented Jesus with expensive kingly gifts of gold, myrrh and frankincense (Matthew 2:11). This was no ordinary king.
At the time of his crucifixion the plaque above Jesus’ head, when he was nailed to the cross said, ‘Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews’ (John 19:19). What kind of a king was He? Zachariah 9:9b says, “See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.” If you were living in that time, would you follow such a lowly person? People look for fame and fortune, thrills and spills but is that the real thing?
At the time when Jesus was choosing His disciples, there was anticipation of the Messiah – the ‘anointed one’. Andrew eagerly told his brother Simon (Peter)that he had found the Messiah, Christ the anointed one (John 1:41). But Jesus was not accepted by the religious leaders who were looking for a powerful political figure, like the Jewish kings they had (most of whom were flawed and corrupt). Scriptures foretold His life, ministry and death yet these leaders were blinded. Ironically, in them condemning Him to death, Jesus Christ, as the Son of God, triumphantly established Himself as the King of the Jews AND King of Kings for all mankind. 1 Timothy 6:13-16 refers to Him as ‘King of kings and Lord of lords’. Following Him here on earth, we will reap the rewards into eternity.
Who do you follow and what do they have to offer you? ◊
Linda Pearl
About the Author
