Reduce Distraction to Increase Devotion

Adapted from: Reduce Distraction to Increase Devotion by Dr. Sam Holm

Follow Me as I Follow Christ: Embracing the Call to Discipleship

Have you ever wondered what it truly means to follow Jesus? You’re not alone. Many of us grapple with the idea of living a life that reflects Christ’s love and teachings. In a world filled with distractions, how do we focus on what truly matters? This sermon explores the essence of discipleship and how we can live a life that invites others to follow Jesus through our example.

The main point of the sermon is clear: to be a disciple of Christ means to live in such a way that others can follow our example as we follow Him. This isn’t just about wearing a Christian T-shirt or attending church on Sundays. It’s about embodying the teachings of Jesus in our daily lives and relationships. The sermon challenges us to consider our circle of influence and how we can intentionally lead others to Christ.

Living as a Disciple

The call to discipleship is a call to action. It’s about more than just personal faith; it’s about influencing others. The Apostle Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 11:1, “Follow my example as I follow the example of Christ,” serve as a powerful reminder of our responsibility. But how do we live this out practically?

1. Reduce Distractions: In our fast-paced world, distractions are everywhere. The sermon encourages us to engage in practices like fasting to help us focus on our relationship with God. By reducing distractions, we can increase our devotion to Christ and be more intentional in our discipleship journey. Fasting, whether from food or digital distractions, is a spiritual discipline that helps us realign our priorities and focus on what truly matters.

2. Engage in Prayer: Prayer is a vital part of following Jesus. It’s through prayer that we seek God’s guidance and strength to live out our faith. The sermon invites us to commit to praying for the next generation and for those in our circle of influence. Who are the three people you can pray for this week? Prayer is not just a personal exercise but a communal one, where we lift up others and seek God’s will for their lives.

3. Build Relationships: Discipleship happens in the context of relationships. Whether it’s with family, coworkers, or neighbors, we are called to love others as Christ loves us. The sermon highlights the importance of being intentional in our interactions and using our influence to lead others to Jesus. Building relationships means investing time and energy into others, showing genuine care and concern for their well-being.

4. Embrace Replication: The goal of discipleship is not just to follow Jesus ourselves but to help others do the same. This means being open to sharing our faith and inviting others into a relationship with Christ. It’s about creating a ripple effect that extends beyond our immediate circle. Replication is about multiplication, not just addition, as we seek to expand God’s kingdom through intentional disciple-making.

Taking the Next Step

The message is clear: Jesus wants us to be His disciples and to make disciples. This week, consider how you can take a concrete step in following Jesus. Is there someone in your life who needs to hear about His love? How can you be more intentional in your relationships and prayer life?

Without taking these steps, you might miss out on the incredible opportunity to impact others for Christ. So, what will you do this week to live out your faith and invite others to follow Jesus?

As we reflect on the sermon, it’s important to remember that discipleship is a journey, not a destination. It requires ongoing commitment and intentionality. By reducing distractions, engaging in prayer, building relationships, and embracing replication, we can live out our calling as disciples of Christ.

Conclusion

The call to discipleship is a call to live a life that reflects Jesus in every aspect. It’s about being intentional in our relationships and using our influence to lead others to Him. As we commit to this journey, let us remember that we are not alone. God is with us, guiding us every step of the way. Let us embrace the call to discipleship and live a life that invites others to follow Jesus.