Following at a Distance

Following Closely: A Call to Radical Faith

In a recent sermon, Pastor Travis Johnson introduced a powerful message series titled "(Un)Embarrassed of Jesus." This sermon conveys a sense of urgency and a different nuance compared to simply "not being ashamed of Jesus." It challenges believers to reflect on their faith and consciously follow Jesus closely rather than at a distance.

The Struggle of Faith

Pastor Johnson acknowledges that even the most devoted Christians have moments where their faith may wane. He shares that everyone, even the disciples, has faced times when they felt the need to downplay their faith due to the conflicting loyalties between the kingdom of this world and the kingdom of God. In these moments, believers often walk away feeling they didn't properly represent Christ.

Pastor Johnson reassures us that we are in good company. The Bible tells us that even the disciples, who were closest to Jesus, had their moments of doubt and fear. As Johnson reminds us, John, who described himself as "the one that Jesus loved," was present at the crucifixion but from a distance. This idea serves as the central theme of the sermon: following at a distance.

A Challenge to Follow Closely

Pastor Johnson emphasizes that it's time for the church to stop following Jesus at a distance. He asserts this is the best time for Christians to be all in for Jesus. Drawing closer to God is not just an individual goal but a communal one. He stresses the importance of being part of a church community, engaging in small groups, attending conferences, and participating in church activities. These actions help us to draw nearer to God and support each other in our faith journey.

Johnson also speaks about the current state of the global church, noting that while the global church is experiencing explosive growth, the American church is undergoing a reshuffling. He highlights the importance of clear gospel churches that are not afraid to preach the Word of God, as these churches are thriving and drawing people who seek genuine, uncompromised faith.

Practical Steps for Closer Walk

Pastor Johnson provides practical advice for those who wish to follow Jesus more closely. He encourages believers to:

Join Small Groups: Engage in small group activities to foster growth and build stronger relationships within the church.

"If you’re at Pathway Church and you’re not in a small group, you are missing out on some amazing growth in Christ and friendship."

Attend Conferences and Special Events: These gatherings can rejuvenate your faith and connect you with like-minded believers.

"Get every woman that you know and get them in the house [for She Is Conference]. It’ll change your life."

Become Active in Church: Don't just attend; be an integral part of the community by joining growth track and understanding the church’s beliefs and doctrines.

"Learn about what we’re about, our structure and our beliefs, go line by line through our doctrine and let’s build this thing."

Commit to Weekly Worship: Engage fully in worship services and make it a part of your regular routine.

"How are you going to worship every day in eternity when you don’t want to worship once a week?"

The Cost of Distance

Following Jesus at a distance comes with significant costs. Johnson points out that when you are not fully engaged, you miss out on the power, grace, and spirit that close followers of Christ experience. The farther you walk behind Jesus, the louder the world's voice becomes and the quieter His voice gets. This can lead to confusion, distraction, and eventually, a weakening faith.

A Personal Decision

Pastor Johnson concludes with a profound call: to come close to God. He emphasizes that no matter where you are in your spiritual journey, drawing closer to God will bring transformation and renewal. He asserts that it’s not about having arrived at a perfect destination but about continually moving closer to Jesus every day.

Final Prayer and Call to Action

He invites the congregation to stand and commit themselves to follow Jesus more closely, urging those who are not yet following Jesus to take the step of faith. He assures that God’s compassion is limitless and that He is always ready to welcome anyone who seeks Him earnestly.

In conclusion, Pastor Johnson’s message is a powerful reminder that following Jesus closely is essential for a vibrant, transformative faith. It challenges us to assess our level of commitment and take active steps to draw nearer to God. Let us heed this call and move forward, embracing a radical and unembarrassed faith in Jesus.

Pathway Church invites you to engage deeply in your faith and join us on this journey of following Jesus closely. Visit us for our services, join a small group, or participate in our upcoming events to strengthen your walk with God.