Follow the Leader

A favorite childhood memory for many is playing the game “Follow the Leader.” The one chosen to be leader decides the path taken and how he or she wishes to move. All others must then follow suit. The line of players follows along doing exactly as the leader does. If the leader hops; all hop. If the leaders runs; all run. This continues on through skipping, crawling, walking backwards, flapping arms and any other creative means of forward movement the leader comes up with. This game is a lot of fun and good exercise for children.

The best position for a follower to be in is near the front of the line. Here you can see and mimic the leader’s actions easily. From this position there is no question of who and what you are to imitate.

Jesus called those who would believe in Him to follow Him. “And He said to them, Come after Me [as disciples—letting Me be your Guide], follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men!” (Matthew 4:19 AMP) We are to leave everything behind that would hinder us. The apostle Paul, speaking to followers of Christ stated, ”Therefore be imitators of God [copy Him and follow His example], as well-beloved children [imitate their father].” (Ephesians 5:1 AMP) Many of the teachings throughout the New Testament are instructions on how to imitate Jesus Christ.
 When a large group is playing “Follow the Leader”, it is sometimes difficult for those who are farther back in line to be able to see the leader. At these times, one must imitate someone ahead of them who has a better view. If two people are seen doing different moves, one must trust and follow the person who is more reliable to be mimicking exactly what he sees. A willing follower will be more accurate than someone who wants to continually do his or her own thing.        

Often, when God speaks to us as a body, he may give clear direction to our leaders. At this time we are to trust God to speak to a leader and that the leader will hear and respond accurately. Paul boldly told the early Christians, “Pattern yourselves after me [follow my example], as I imitate and follow Christ (the Messiah).” (1 Corinthians 11:1 AMP)  With this statement, he carried a great responsibility to ensure that he did not allow his own attitudes or desires to cloud his ability to see and follow Jesus. Our leaders in the body of Christ carry the same responsibility today.

When leaders disagree on things, it is the believer’s responsibility to test all things according to the Word of God. Religious traditions or personal reasoning can cloud our ability to accurately see and hear what Jesus is doing. Scripture is the only correct guide to the truth. Paul spoke highly of the Berea church for checking all of his teachings against the written law of God. “…for they were entirely ready and accepted and welcomed the message [concerning the attainment through Christ of eternal salvation in the kingdom of God] with inclination of mind and eagerness, searching and examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.” (Acts 17:11 AMP) We can also joyfully receive from and follow our leaders when their message and actions lineup with the Scriptures.

When every child follows the appointed leader, Follow  the  Leader is a game that is fun for all. When every member of the body of Christ follows Jesus, the work of God will be accomplished in the earth.

So get in the game today. Take your position following Jesus as together we walk, skip or run through this life.