Who and What are You Following
Proverbs 2:20
Whether we realize it or not we are following something or someone. In this verse we see both the people to follow and the path that they are on. Jesus in the New Testament simplified life into two paths. The Narrow way and the Broad way (Matthew 7:13-14)
1) The Narrow way pictures Salvation following Jesus (John 8:12)
2) The Broad way pictures a lost person following Satan (Ephesians 2:2)
Many today would not consider themselves to be following Satan but they must remember that as the god of this world even worldly things that would keep us from Jesus Christ are designed and promoted by him and those already on the path. Note the illustration in Exodus 32:1.
As saved born again children of God we should be following God and this is obvious from the scriptures (Ephesians 5:1). Therefore let us look at some principles in regards to following God.
1) We have to follow the right things (1 Timothy 6:11 ; 2 Timothy 2:22)
- In these two verses we see 9 different things we are to follow; Righteousness, faith, charity, peace, godliness, love, patience, meekness, and those that call on God out of a pure heart.
- If we could manage this list not only would we be better off spiritually but we would have very little time for following what is wrong.
2) We will eventually follow others (1 Corinthians 11:1)
- We are told to follow Paul as he followed God. This is why he told us in Philippians 3:17-19 to mark those that are right and follow them.
- But we also have to avoid the wrong people (Proverbs 28:19) and this is why he told us to mark them that are doing right.
3) Who you follow rubs off on you (Acts 4:13)
- By the actions and manners the people knew that the disciples had been with Jesus.
- Does anyone know that you are a follower of Jesus Christ, we must not only tell them but we must also show them we are followers of Jesus Christ.
4) We leave a legacy to follow (Revelation 14:13)
- Depending on who and what we follow we will leave a legacy (Psalm 23:6).
- Also we have to consider the fact that someone we be watching and following us we should not leave a bad example.
Whether saved or lost you are on a path and that path has a destination. If you are saved consider your path for the Lord and the others that may be following you.
Who and What are You Following : Handout
Proverbs 2:20
1) What is the passage where Jesus simplified life into two paths?
2) What are those two paths and what do they represent? Give references.
3) What is a New Testament reference for saved people following God?
4) Make an outline in regards to principles for following God.