Sometimes it is difficult to stay focused on the task at hand. That can come from fear for the future, but it can also come from the temptation we have to look back. Our past, our previous failures, and even our longing for prior victories can keep us from moving forward. Jesus knows this well. He knows that we are constantly confronted with opportunities to leave Him and to go our own way. That is why He confronts us with the stark reality of what it means to follow Jesus – it means to trust Him with everything that we have and are. The question comes to you today: “Will You Follow Jesus?” (Luke 9:51-62)

I. The Samaritan Village (9:51-56)

II. The Man Who Said He Would Go Anywhere (9:57-58)

III. The Two Men Who Looked Back (9:59-62)

Questions for consideration: (1) How do you handle others who will not receive Jesus? (2) What is the danger of not counting the cost? In what ways have you failed to anticipate the cost of following Jesus? (3) What things – both good and bad – have caused you to fail to follow Jesus all the time?