To follow Christ is to commit ourselves wholly and entirely to Him as our only leader and Savior, and to submit ourselves to Him in every matter, both of doctrine and practice. “Following” is only another word for “believing.” It is the same act of soul, only seen from a different point of view. As Israel followed the pillar of cloud and fire in all their journeys – moving whenever it moved, stopping whenever it tarried, asking no questions, marching on in faith – so must a man deal with Christ. He must “follow the Lamb wherever He goes.” (Rev. 14:4.)
~ J.C. Ryle
Expository Thoughts on the Gospels: John, volume 2, [Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth, 1987], 85.
The post-modern emphasizes “following” Jesus over believing in and on Him. As does Rob Bell, these people follow methods and “spiritual disciplines” while denying in word and deed the Truth of Scripture and call themselves “Christ followers”. We must not confuse outer manifestations with the inner work of the Holy Spirit. But the ditch on the other side of the road is known among the “Free Grace” people, who deny that one should expect “good works” to flow from one who has been born again by the Spirit of the living God. Saved unto works, not by works. The narrow road – truly following Christ – therein lies the heart of the Saint.