Jesus first words to his disciples were not, “Come and believe in me”. They were, “Come and follow me”. Is it possible that the modern church has created a false division between belief and obedience or what Dietrich Bonhoeffer called cheap grace. What if Jesus’ words, come follow me, are the greatest invitation we could ever receive? What if Jesus’ invitation is an invitation into a deeper understanding of what eternal life truly is?
Matthew 4:18-20 (ESV)
While walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon (who is called Peter) and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Immediately they left their nets and followed him.
Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV)
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.