If Jesus sat down with us for some one-on-one time, what would we ask Him? More importantly, how would we respond to His questions?
Knowing He is omniscient God, the Living Word of God [John 1:1-3] who knows the “thoughts and intents of the heart” [Hebrews 4:12], compels us to answer honestly and fully. No hiding, deflecting, or excusing. Just honest answers.
John’s Gospel records several questions Jesus asked in His earthly ministry. By personally considering each of His questions, we face His same probing truth. By responding truthfully, may we be drawn into a more intimate walk with Him.
1st Question – What Do You Seek?
Following Jesus’ baptism, John the Baptizer said, “I have seen and testified that this is the Son of God.” That was John’s role—to boldly proclaim Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah.
The next day, John stood with two of his disciples. And looking at Jesus as He walked, he said, “Behold the Lamb of God!”The two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus. Then Jesus turned, and seeing them following, said to them, “What do you seek?” [John 1:34-39, bold text added]
In today’s language, this would be similar to asking, “How may I help you?” or more casually, “What’s up?” Jesus probed their motives. “Why are you following Me? What do you want or expect from Me?”
The question stands today: Why do we follow Jesus? What are our motives? What do we expect from Him?
The two disciples asked where Jesus was staying. His answer echoes to us: “Come and see.” “Follow Me and find out where I am staying. Come along and learn of Me. Walk with Me each day, each step of the way.” “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me” [John 10:27].
Response
Following Jesus cannot be for wealth, prestige, or fame—or simply to gain knowledge about Him. Jesus said following Him involves self-denial and cross-carrying [Luke 9:23]. Yet, He also said He is the only way to eternal life [John 14:6] and that His followers would find rest for their weary souls [Matthew 11:29].
Many people follow Him for a variety of reasons. However, only the reasons with eternal significance should call our attention. We find salvation in Him alone [Acts 4:12]. Only through His death on Calvary do we find forgiveness of sin [Ephesians 1:7]. Solely through His resurrection do we have eternal life with Him [John 11:25]. After His ascension, it is He who intercedes on our behalf before God the Father [Romans 8:34] as our Advocate [1 John 2:1-2].
So, why wouldn’t we follow Him? Better question: Why aren’t more people following Him?
Of all Jesus’ questions, this one speaks to basic motives—”What do you seek?” My answer is, “I seek You and only You as my personal Lord and Savior. You love me enough to give Your life for me, sacrificing everything for me. My desire is to please only You, to follow only Your truth, and to spend eternity with You.”
I pray it is your response as well.
This is an updated edition of a post originally published on Nate Stevens
Featured Image by Markus Winkler on Unsplash
