, Jesus tells those who want to be His disciples to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him. All people who profess the name of Christ are called to follow Him—not simply believe. That's the difference. Believing in Jesus is a start, but following Jesus is how we show the world we are who we say we are, especially when life is difficult or we face persecution. So, the next time you call yourself a believer, think about how Jesus has invited all of His disciples—even you—into the extraordinary purpose of following Him by taking up the cross in their lives.