The pursuit of Jesus Christ is a central theme in Christian discipleship, emphasizing the importance of following Him with sincerity and pure intentions. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that highlight the necessity of approaching Jesus with the right motives, underscoring the heart's condition as paramount in the life of a believer.

Biblical Foundation

The call to pursue Jesus is rooted in the invitation He extends to all: "Come, follow Me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men" (Matthew 4:19). This call is not merely an external following but an invitation to a transformative relationship that requires genuine commitment and a heart aligned with God's will.

Right Motives in Pursuit

1. Love for God and Neighbor: The greatest commandments, as stated by Jesus, are to love God with all one's heart, soul, and mind, and to love one's neighbor as oneself (Matthew 22:37-39). Pursuing Jesus with right motives involves prioritizing these commandments, ensuring that love is the driving force behind one's actions and decisions.

2. Desire for Righteousness: Jesus taught, "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled" (Matthew 5:6). A genuine pursuit of Jesus is marked by a deep desire for righteousness, seeking to align one's life with His teachings and example.

3. Seeking God's Kingdom: In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus instructed, "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you" (Matthew 6:33). The right motive in pursuing Jesus is characterized by a focus on God's kingdom and His righteousness above personal gain or worldly concerns.

4. Humility and Repentance: The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector (Luke 18:9-14) illustrates the importance of humility and repentance in approaching God. The tax collector's humble plea, "God, have mercy on me, a sinner," exemplifies the right heart posture in seeking Jesus.

Warnings Against Wrong Motives

The Bible also warns against pursuing Jesus with wrong motives. In John 6:26, Jesus rebukes the crowd, saying, "Truly, truly, I tell you, it is not because you saw these signs that you are looking for Me, but because you ate the loaves and had your fill" . This highlights the danger of seeking Jesus for material benefits or personal gain rather than for who He is.

The account of Simon the Sorcerer in Acts 8:18-23 serves as another cautionary tale. Simon sought the power of the Holy Spirit for selfish reasons, prompting Peter to admonish him, "May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money!" (Acts 8:20). This account underscores the importance of pure motives in the pursuit of spiritual gifts and experiences.

Heart Examination

Scripture encourages believers to examine their hearts regularly. Psalm 139:23-24 is a prayer for divine examination: "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." This introspection ensures that one's pursuit of Jesus remains sincere and aligned with His purposes.

Conclusion

The pursuit of Jesus with right motives is a lifelong journey that requires continual self-examination, a heart of love, and a focus on God's kingdom. By aligning one's motives with biblical principles, believers can experience a deeper, more authentic relationship with Christ.