Sometimes, we follow people because we know and trust them—like parents, teachers, pastors, or friends. Other times, we follow people without knowing who they truly are. Let’s take a look at a comical example of this.
Show the following video [1:43]:
Little girl mistakes old man for Santa Claus and he adorably plays along
The little girl followed and approached the man in the store because he looked like Santa—someone familiar to her.
How well do we know those we follow? Enough to be sure we will not make similar mistakes?
- Who would you follow to find the way to the cafeteria in a new school, and why: Someone in a cafeteria worker’s uniform or a student who you heard is known for pranks? (We can be sure the cafeteria worker knows where to find the cafeteria and is less likely to mislead a student.)
- Who would you follow when feeling pressed to join the crowd, and why: Peers whose actions are sometimes questionable or peers whose values you are familiar with and respect? (Peers whose values we are familiar with and respect, perhaps because we know their actions align with our values.)
- Have you ever followed without knowing enough about who or what you were following? What was that experience like for you? (Answers will vary; be prepared to share your own experience.)
- Who are some people that you know well enough to feel comfortable following their advice, guidance, or example? (Answers will vary but may include parents, your pastor, specific friends, etc.)
It would be great to know who we are following well enough to never accidentally lose focus or follow another by mistake. Let’s see what Jesus says about the connection between knowing and following Him.
