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What Does It Mean To Follow Jesus? | Rev. Vicki Harrison

New Hope Tampa Bay Sunday Sermon Podcast

Release Date: 04/27/2025

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This week at New Hope, Pastor Vicki challenges us with one of the most crucial questions of all: what does it really mean to follow Jesus?

We explore Mark 8:31-38, where Jesus openly shares that following Him means more than simply believing — it means denying ourselves, picking up our cross, and giving Him full authority over our lives. It’s not the comfortable road many of us might imagine. Jesus doesn't promise an easy life, but a true life — one that goes against the grain of self-centeredness, pride, and worldly values.

Pastor Vicki reminds us that sometimes we’re tempted to reshape Jesus into a version we find more convenient, one that fits our preferences or cultural values. But the real Jesus — the suffering servant, the risen Lord — calls us to radical surrender.

Following Jesus isn't a halfway commitment. It's an invitation to lose the life we think we want so that we can gain the life God has prepared for us.

This week's message asks:

  • Are we willing to surrender everything?

  • Where do our lives need realignment with the values of Christ rather than the values of culture?

  • Are we following fully, or halfway?

Take some time to reflect, pray, and honestly wrestle with these questions below.

Discussion Questions

Christianity Explored: What does it mean to follow Jesus?
Mark 8:31-38

  • What are some ways we might make Jesus into our own image?

  • What kind of Messiah were the disciples expecting? How did Jesus differ from their expectation?

  • How would you define self-denial as discussed in the message?

  • What did Jesus mean by taking up your cross?

  • How do the values of Jesus conflict with our values as Americans? What about your own personal values?

  • Is it possible to follow Jesus half-way? Why or why not?

  • What is the biggest irony, according to Pastor Vicki?

Questions to reflect on this week:

  • Are you willing to surrender all to follow Jesus?

  • What needs to change in your life and thinking to be more consistent with the ways of Jesus Christ?