Definition and Terminology:
Followers of Jesus, often referred to as disciples, Christians, or believers, are individuals who adhere to the teachings and example of Jesus Christ as recorded in the New Testament. The term "Christian" was first used in Antioch, as noted in Acts 11:26 : "And when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught large numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch."

Biblical Foundation:
The call to follow Jesus is a central theme in the Gospels. Jesus invited individuals to follow Him, promising a transformative relationship. In Matthew 4:19 , Jesus calls His first disciples, saying, "Come, follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." This invitation was not limited to the original twelve apostles but extended to all who would believe in Him.

Characteristics of Followers:
Followers of Jesus are characterized by their faith in Him as the Son of God and their commitment to His teachings. In John 8:31 , Jesus states, "If you continue in My word, you are truly My disciples." This implies a life of obedience, study, and application of His teachings. Additionally, love is a defining mark of a follower, as Jesus commanded in John 13:34-35 : "A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you also must love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another."

Mission and Purpose:
The mission of Jesus' followers is encapsulated in the Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:19-20 : "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." This mission involves evangelism, discipleship, and teaching, aiming to spread the Gospel and expand the Kingdom of God.

Community and Worship:
Followers of Jesus are called to live in community, often referred to as the Church, which is the body of Christ. Acts 2:42 describes the early Christian community: "They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer." Worship, prayer, and the sacraments are central to the life of believers, providing spiritual nourishment and communal support.

Challenges and Persecution:
Throughout history, followers of Jesus have faced persecution and challenges. Jesus warned His disciples of this reality in John 15:18-20 : "If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first. If you were of the world, it would love you as its own. Instead, the world hates you, because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world." Despite these challenges, believers are encouraged to remain steadfast in their faith.

Eternal Perspective:
Followers of Jesus hold an eternal perspective, believing in the promise of eternal life through faith in Him. In John 3:16 , the assurance of salvation is given: "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." This hope of eternal life motivates believers to live according to the teachings of Jesus and to share the Gospel with others.