Every Christian begins to follow Jesus at some point. Many are in the very beginning stages of following Jesus right now while others can faintly remember the first days they spent with Jesus. But, all disciples at some point go through what might be called an awkward stage--a time after making Jesus' acquaintance but before deciding to follow him. During this stage of discipleship it is common to ask Jesus three questions:
1. Jesus, are you following me?
2. Jesus, where are you taking me?
3. Jesus, what do you want from me?
These questions are some of the very first prayers of a disciple and happen to be prayers that disciples will offer up on a regular basis. The disciple Peter was no exception. Listen to this sermon and imagine yourself as Peter. Does it seem like Jesus has been following you? Are you unsure of his intentions with you? Are you unsure of what he wants from you? Well, perhaps the story of Peter can help you in this moment. Hopefully, through the life of Peter you can learn a little of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus.
Reflection Questions
Pastor Brandon said that the stories of the Disciples are not meant merely to satisfy our curiosity. They are intended to be object lessons and examples for us to learn from. What can we learn by closely following the lives of the disciples?
In your own Christian experience, does it seem like Jesus has sought you out intentionally? Does it seem like he has a particular intention for your life? Do you know what it might be?
As Christians we know the end of our stories. We have many promises given to us by God. But, there are still high levels of ambiguity in the Christian life. We don't always understand God's purposes and ways. How do you handle the lack of information? How do you handle the feeling of not being in control? Can you trust Jesus to be the captain of your life?
What is it that God really wants from us? After sending his son into the world to accomplish on our behalf all that is necessary for salvation, how does God intend for us to respond?
Pastor Brandon said that Jesus was preaching the gospel when he finally stepped aboard Simon Peter's boat? What is the gospel and what are some ways it is relevant to your life? Is this particular message unique among world religions?
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