What does it mean to follow Jesus? He summons us, first, to adhere to His words. To be more specific, we are to follow His creed. Followers of Jesus will believe what He taught, about God: That He is a loving heavenly Father who gives good gifts (7:11). He is also a righteous and just judge, who will punish unrepentant sinners (5:29-30). Our Father will hear the prayers of all who come to Him in sincere faith (6:6), providing our daily needs, forgiving our sins, and protecting us from temptation and evil (6:11-13). Jesus Christ: He is Lord (7:21), and thus equal with God the Father. In a unique way, He is the Son of God (7:21), as well as the unique Son of Man (9:6). Thus, He has power to issue commands (5:21-48), to heal (8:10), to forgive sins (9:6), to condemn unrepentant sinners (7:23), to enable men to know God the Father (11:27), to grant real rest (11:28), and to give His life as a ransom for sinners (20:28). Jesus’ disciples will also follow His commands. Matthew’s Gospel is filled with His instructions, which are not optional guidelines but authoritative orders. They include: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (4:17). “Love your enemies” (5:44). “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” (6:33). “Ask, and it will be given you” (7:7). “Go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you” (28:18-19). Jesus said, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:31-32). To follow Jesus’ words is to walk the path of truth and freedom. Shall we?