1. Loyalty Matthew 6:24

2. Loyalty To Christ Multitudes followed Jesus Mark. 1:45; 2:2; 4:1; et al are examples Yet some who followed were not loyal to Him (Jn. 6:66) The disciples of Jesus started out on a simple plea of “Follow Me” (Matt. 9:9) Undivided loyalty developed (Jn. 6:67-69) To follow no matter what (Rev. 2:10)

3. We also see how loyalty exacts a price It is necessary to count the cost (Lk. 14:25-33) Notice the rich young ruler (Matt. 19:16- 22) Notice carefully 2 Timothy 2:4: Soldiers are expected to be loyal Distractions are minimized for best service and loyalty Reminds of Matthew 6:33

4. Loyalty To The Truth Impossible to separate Jesus from the truth He is the spokesman for God (Heb. 1:2) God’s word is truth (Jn. 17:17) Synonymous terms. “Truth” (Col. 1:5) “Word” (Eph. 1:13) “Gospel” (Gal. 2:5) “Doctrine” (Lk. 4:32)

5. Activity involved in being loyal to the truth Seek it (Jn. 5:39) Receive it (1 Thess. 2:13) Follow it (James 1:22) Defend it (Phil. 1:17) Love it (2 Thess. 2:10)

6. Loyalty To The Church Jesus is the founder of the church He built it (Matt. 16:18) It carries His name (Rom. 16:16) He is the head of it (Col. 1:18) It is His body (Eph. 1:22-23)

7. The church is the “pillar and ground of the truth” (1 Tim. 3:15) “Pillar” (“support”). The church holds up that which is true “Ground” (“foundation”). The church is a base for truth “The” as opposed to “a”. Indicates no other alternative

8. Jesus gave His life for the church (Eph. 5:25-29) The church is like a cherished, beloved spouse He shed His blood for the church (Acts 20:28)