This sermon explores the deep cultural and historical context of Jesus' call to discipleship. It unpacks the Jewish rabbinical tradition of the first century, revealing how Jesus' invitation to "follow me" carried profound meaning beyond a simple call to belief. Pastor Brad emphasizes that true discipleship involves a complete transformation of life, mirroring the rabbi-disciple relationship of Jesus' time. This understanding challenges modern Christians to move beyond cultural Christianity to a more profound, life-altering commitment to following Jesus.

Key Points:

- The Jewish educational system (Bet Sefar, Bet Talmud, Bet Midrash) and its role in preparing young men to become rabbis

- The significance of a rabbi's invitation to "come, follow me" in Jewish culture

- Jesus' selection of disciples who had been previously "rejected" from becoming rabbis

- The difference between cultural Christianity and practicing discipleship

- The call to deny oneself and take up one's cross as part of following Jesus

- The need for Christians to move beyond mere belief to full discipleship

Scripture References:

Matthew 4:18-20 (Jesus calling Peter and Andrew)

Matthew 9:9 (Jesus calling Matthew)

Matthew 19:16-22 (The Rich Young Ruler)

Matthew 16:24-26 (Taking up one's cross to follow Jesus)

Stories:

The pastor's personal anecdote about wanting to be a "cool dad"

The traditional blessing given to new disciples: "Go and be covered in the dust of your rabbi"

The speculative narrative of Matthew's journey from rejected rabbinical student to tax collector to disciple

The encounter between Jesus and the rich young ruler, reinterpreted through the lens of rabbinical dialogue