But this I confess to you, however, that in accordance with the Way [of the Lord], which they call a [heretical, division-producing] sect, I worship (serve) the God of our fathers, still persuaded of the truth of and believing in and placing full confidence in everything laid down in the Law [of Moses] or written in the prophets.
(Acts 24:14 AMPC)
Someone who noticed the number of followers on my Facebook blog, questioned why they were not all active. I told them about the personal conversations I’ve had with some who say they read the devotionals every day, which makes my day. That is why I don’t bother keeping track of the number of “followers” and “likes.” As long as someone is reading and being encouraged that’s all that really matters. As my wise publisher once said to me, “My philosophy is that if even one of my books makes a difference or changes a life, it will have been worthwhile.” And boy, don’t I know that well!
We live in a social media age where the number of followers and likes is said to determine your success to the point that it drives most to directly message you their posts for you to like in order for them to gain recognition. But do you know what the first followers of Jesus (aka “the Way”) were busy doing back in the day? Gaining more followers for Him! That’s exactly what we find the apostle Paul doing as he testified before kings and rulers:
“King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do.”
Then Agrippa said to Paul, “Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?”
Paul replied, “Short time or long–I pray God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains.” (Acts 26:27-29 NIV)
Let’s stop trying to gain followers for ourselves and try to gain more followers for the Way.
Rising with the Son 