Are You Really Following Jesus? | Mark 8:27–38 | Bill LaMoreyWhat does it actually mean to follow Jesus?In Mark 8:27–38, Jesus moves beyond “Come and see” and reveals the true cost of discipleship: deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Him. This challenging passage forces every follower of Christ to wrestle with three relationship-defining questions about identity, purpose, and allegiance.In “Are You Really Following Jesus?”, Pastor Bill explores the turning point in the Gospel of Mark, beginning with one of the most important questions Jesus ever asked:“Who do YOU say I am?”Peter recognizes Jesus as the Messiah—but he quickly discovers that recognizing Jesus’ identity is only the beginning. Following Jesus also means understanding His mission and surrendering our lives to His purposes.In this sermon, discover:• Why Jesus’ identity changes everything about how we follow Him• What it means for Jesus to be our Prophet, Priest, and King• Why Peter wanted the crown without the cross• How human concerns can compete with the purposes of God• What Jesus means by “deny yourself” and “take up your cross”• The difference between receiving salvation and living as a disciple• Why following Jesus requires surrender, sacrifice, and allegiance• Why losing your life for Jesus is ultimately the path to finding true lifeJesus paid the price for our salvation—we don't earn it. But the grace that saves us also calls us to surrender our lives.So the question isn’t simply, “Do I believe in Jesus?”It’s also: Am I really following Him?When Jesus raises the stakes, will we walk away—or will we say with Peter, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”📖 Scripture: Mark 8:27–38🎙️ Message: Are You Really Following Jesus?📅 August 30, 2026🎤 Bill LaMoreyIf this message encouraged, challenged, or helped you grow in your relationship with Jesus, LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE for more Bible teaching through the Gospel of Mark.One Life Church meets Sunday mornings at 10 AM at:3939 Webber St, Sarasota Learn more about One Life Church in Sarasota, FL here: https://onelifesarasota.org#FollowingJesus #Mark8 #Discipleship #GospelOfMark #JesusChrist #ChristianSermon #BibleTeaching #TakeUpYourCross #ChristianLiving #Faith #BibleStudy #FollowJesus #ChristianDiscipleship #BillLaMorey