What does it mean to follow Jesus?

Following Jesus means choosing to learn from him, trust him and allow his teaching to shape the way you live.

It does not mean becoming perfect immediately or never making another mistake. Jesus’s first followers often misunderstood him, failed and had to begin again.

At the heart of following Jesus is learning to love as he loved. He told his disciples:

“Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”

John 13:34

This kind of love can be expressed through patience, forgiveness, honesty, compassion, generosity and care for people who are easily overlooked.

Following Jesus also means spending time with him through prayer, learning from the Bible and becoming willing to change when you recognise that something in your life is causing harm.

Some changes may come quickly, while others may take time. The Christian journey is not only about making one decision; it is about gradually learning to live in relationship with Jesus.

You can begin with small and honest steps: speak to Jesus, read one of his teachings, forgive where you can, help someone in need or ask how love might guide your next decision.

Following Jesus is not about earning his love. It is a response to the love and welcome that he has already offered you.