These are the seven keys to following Jesus, but like all keys they merely unlock the door to the next passageway. The Scripture calls us to action as well. One final point about following Jesus:
“For this very reason, make every effort . . .”
Peter’s exhortation comes after we see things from God’s perspective. The order is important. Notice that “effort” comes after we encounter his divine power, his glory and goodness, and his precious promises. Too many disciples of Jesus, serious in their commitment to follow him, believe that their effort comes first. Instead, our effort is a response to all he has done.
Some Christians think effort is opposed to grace. For these friends, we can only quote Dallas Willard: “Grace is not opposed to effort; it is opposed to earning.” The good news is that following Jesus is possible!
This article on following Jesus originally appeared here, and is used by permission.
