Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me.
John 12:26 NIV
Can a person be saved if they do not serve the Lord Jesus? I know all too many people who seem to believe that it is enough to make a profession of faith in Jesus, attend worship services somewhat regularly, and live a good life. But that seems somewhat at odds with what Jesus and His apostles say here and elsewhere.
Following Jesus
Three times in this verse, Jesus mentions either serving or being a servant. The one who would serve Jesus must follow Him wherever He leads. Following and serving go hand in hand. If we are following Jesus, then we will be where He is. And those who serve Him will be where He is. The implication is that if we do not follow and serve Him, we will not be where He is. This is true both now and for eternity.
And He concluded by saying that the Father will honor the one who serves the Son. This is very reminiscent of Matthew 25:21, where the master honored the faithful servant, telling him, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” Don’t be content with sitting on the sidelines. Roll up your sleeves and get to work, serving our Lord as He has called you. Serving, not to be saved. But because you have been called to follow and to serve. And as you do, you will be with Jesus and will be honored by the Father.
Thanks so much for the clarification of John 12:26 I was confused about serving and following, but now your explanation has brought more light
I am glad it was helpful. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you so much for these two verses John 12:26, and Mathew 25:21, I have ever read these verses, and taught about them, but not very well as you have done. I have learn’t more, understood more about them. Wow !!. May God bless you in Jesus mighty name. Yours Moses Wasswa.
Thanks for your kind and encouraging words.