Don’t be a Disciple Dropout
We don’t hear much about it, but there were times in Jesus’ ministry when he actually lost momentum and popularity. They are infrequent, but there nonetheless. Can you imagine someone actually choosing to walk away from Jesus? Think about it–the rich young ruler, Judas and Peter, and the people here that John mentions–each of these rejected Jesus in some way. Have you?
As a result of this many of His disciples withdrew, and were not walking with Him anymore. John 6:66
Notice in this verse that those who John mentions were disciples. Strange as it seems, these were not border-line people. These were not fringe followers. Those who walked away from Jesus were time-tested disciples. They had been with Jesus for a while, long enough at least to be recognized as one of his followers. And yet they ceased following. Why? What makes a disciple stop being a disciple? In the example of John 6, it was Jesus’ words. His teachings were so extreme, so radical, that many who had been following decided that they could no longer afford to do so. The side show was over, the miraculous feedings had ceased, and now Jesus was getting down to the nitty-gritty of what it meant to follow. In short, he was talking about a relationship with him. He wanted his followers to feed off of him, to live for him. And that was the deal breaker. After hearing that, many no longer wanted to follow him.
Why are you following Jesus? What is your motive? What draws you to him? He certainly is an attractive figure—offering forgiveness of sins and eternal life; but in reality, he wants more. He wants a relationship. He wants his disciples to live for him as he died for them. He wants them to worship him as the only true God. He wants them to meditate on his teachings. He wants them to teach others how to be his followers as well.
Have you been looking to get out of the discipleship business? You will be somebody’s follower in life. You will call someone or something Lord. Why not recommit your life to Jesus right now? Don’t be a disciple dropout. Commit to follow Jesus for the long haul. Stay with him when times, circumstances, and even his words get tough.
