The Call of "Sígueme" - What Does it Mean to Follow Christ?

Exploring the Biblical Meaning of "Sígueme"

The Spanish phrase "sígueme" translates to "follow me" in English. This simple yet profound statement appears several times throughout the Bible, conveying a call to action and discipleship.

"Sígueme" as an Invitation to Follow Christ

In the Gospels, Jesus begins His earthly ministry by calling to people "Sígueme" or "Follow me." He invites ordinary men and women to become His disciples, leave behind their old lives, and embark on a radical new adventure of faith.

When Jesus says "Sígueme," He is asking people to pattern their lives after Him and join in His mission. This remains a call that rings out through the ages - Jesus still invites all people today to follow Him, find life, and participate in the building of God's Kingdom.

Requirements of "Sígueme"

While following Christ leads to blessing and purpose, Jesus does not gloss over the difficulties. He warns those who would follow to "count the cost" first (Luke 14:25-33). Truly following Christ requires submitting one's whole life to Him, taking up one's cross, and pursuing holiness empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Jesus also emphasizes that following Him must take priority over all other allegiances. Even sacred cultural ties to family must come second to following Christ (Luke 9:57-62). Additionally, Jesus invites particular people to follow Him. He does not expect every person to leave their livelihood. But He does speak with authority to some people, calling them to leave everything behind in order to fulfill a special purpose.

The Blessings of Obeying "Sígueme"

While following Christ costs a great deal, the blessings are even greater. Jesus promises that those who follow Him will receive abundant life (John 10:10), experience the presence of God Himself (John 14:21), and bear fruit that has eternal significance (John 15:1-16). They join in an epic mission far more glorious than any earthly pursuit.

Additionally, Scripture links following Christ with experiencing blessing in one's family, freedom from addiction, renewal of purpose and vision, and breakthrough from stagnancy. Responding to Jesus' call to "sígueme" sets in motion a lifetime of walking with the Savior.

The Call to Follow Applies Today

In a media-saturated age, Jesus' voice can get drowned out. But if we listen, we recognize that He still speaks today, calling people from all walks of life to follow Him. What might it look like for you to respond?

For some, following Jesus starts with putting faith in Him as Savior and Lord. It involves acknowledging one's sinfulness, trusting in Jesus' atoning death for salvation, and surrendering one's life to following Him. This makes one a Christian - a follower and disciple of Jesus.

For others who already follow Jesus, He may speak to some area of disobedience or complacency. How might you grow in sanctification - being set apart for God's purposes? Or perhaps Jesus is calling you to take a courageous step of faith and obedience, leaving behind comfort and predictability. What leap of faith might Jesus be asking of you?

Counting the Cost

As 21st century Jesus-followers, we must count the cost just as the first disciples did. Following Christ calls us to a high standard of ethics, loving service, courageous evangelism, and more. Are there areas of compromise or complacency He is calling you out of?

The Blessings Outweigh the Cost

While following Jesus has a great cost, the blessings are even greater. As we walk with Him, we grow to know Him deeply as a friend and to see life from an eternal perspective. We walk in freedom, purpose, and the power of the Holy Spirit. How have you experienced these blessings from following Him?

Jesus Still Calls People to Follow

All over the world, Jesus appears to people in dreams and visions, calling them to follow Him. This results in massive turning to Christ, despite persecution in some places. As His followers, we get the privilege of joining Him in His mission to seek and save the lost. Who around you needs to hear His call to "sígueme" - to follow Jesus?

FAQs

What does "sígueme" mean in the Bible?

"Sígueme" means "follow me" in Spanish. In the Bible, Jesus uses this phrase to call disciples and followers to pattern their lives after Him.

Is "sígueme" an invitation or a command?

Jesus' call to "sígueme" or follow Him is primarily an invitation to enter into relationship and join in His mission. However, for those who choose to follow Jesus, obeying His teachings then becomes a matter of utmost importance.

What kind of blessing comes from responding to "sígueme"?

Those who follow Jesus experience purpose, freedom, intimate friendship with Him, power from the Holy Spirit, answers to prayer, and more. Additionally, they store up eternal treasure in heaven.

Can someone truly follow Jesus while ignoring some of His teachings?

No. Jesus emphasizes that true followers count the cost and obey all that He commanded. Following Jesus changes every area of one's life over time. Following Him only selectively is not an option.