Studies have shown that we all learn and grow from observation, adaptation, and teachings. Some of them we have grown to admire very much. It was so during Jesus' time. People started to notice something about Jesus. He was regarded as a Rabbi - a respected form of a religious teacher. His work of miracles earned Him a name among the big-time prophets. Many respected Him and Even Admired Him. One day, Jesus openly asked His disciples who do people think He was. The disciples responded as expected. But Jesus went deeper to ask Simon Peter who did Simon Peter thought He was. Jesus was not contented that people regarded Him as a great teacher or great prophet. He was determined to have His disciples acknowledge that He is the Messiah (Anointed One from God). Matthew 16:13-20. The disciples were in the inner circle of Jesus. The difference between them and the admirer is that they were called to follow Him. That raises a question to many Christian today. Are you an admirer of Jesus or are you a follower of Jesus. The difference is significant.

May we seek to be followers of Christ and not mere admirers. Yes, Jesus does possess many qualities to be admired but His heartbeat is to have followers. In total, Jesus used the phrase to follow me 23 times.