Following Christ: A Decision
There is a story that has deeply impacted many, not only because it became a song, but because of the power behind what is known as “The Decision.”
The Story Behind “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus”
“I Have Decided to Follow Jesus” is not just a hymn; it is a testimony of faith in the face of death.
This powerful Christian song originated in Assam, India, during the 19th century. It was inspired by the last words of a man who had converted to Christianity along with his wife and children through the ministry of Welsh missionaries. The village chief demanded that they deny their faith or be executed.
But this man responded with firmness and courage: “I have decided to follow Jesus. No turning back.”
When his children were killed, he said: “Though none go with me, still I will follow.”
And upon losing his wife, he declared: “The cross before me, the world behind me.”
He was ultimately executed, but the story didn’t end there. His faith so deeply touched the village chief that he also converted to Christ, along with many others.
The hymn was later translated into English and spread throughout the world. Today it is sung in churches across the globe as a declaration of total surrender to Jesus.
The Importance of Making a Firm Decision
Many come to Christ in different ways and for different reasons: some moved by repentance, others due to terminal illness, others because they feel accepted, and some simply because they were born into a Christian home. But God’s Word clearly establishes two essential steps: Repent and Convert.
Acts 3:19 (KJV): “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord.”
Let’s focus now on repentance: what does it mean according to the Bible?
What Does It Mean to Repent According to the Bible?
In the Old Testament (Hebrew):
The main word is shûb (שׁוּב), which means to return, to go back, to turn around, to change direction.
Ezekiel 18:30 (KJV): “Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, saith the Lord GOD. Repent, and turn yourselves from all your transgressions; so iniquity shall not be your ruin.”
In the New Testament (Greek):
The word is metanoeō (μετανοέω), which means to change one’s mind or thinking.
Acts 3:19 (KJV): “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out…”
Metanoeō is not just feeling sorrow; it is a deep, internal, and voluntary change of mind and direction toward God.
The Responsibility of the Decision
Accepting Christ is a serious decision that carries great responsibility. It is not merely repeating a prayer, but allowing God to place His seal on you and taking on the commitment to represent Christ.
Matthew 7:21 (KJV): “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.”
Many attend church each week, sing, and say Amen, but do not cultivate a personal relationship with God. They do not seek His will or desire to obey it. Yet that is the responsibility that comes with the decision to follow Him.
You must understand that when you chose to follow Christ, your family was also included. You no longer belong to yourself, nor to the world. You belong to Christ, who bought you with His blood.
Your personal desires must be replaced by God’s. Once, a person in Bellingham, WA, asked me: “Why did you decide to leave everything and come to the United States?” My answer was: Out of obedience to the One who called me.
I went through a very difficult season with my family, and I made a promise to God: Lord, if You perform this miracle, wherever You send me, I will go.
The responsibility of your decision is a promise of life. Although the Bible declares that only God fulfills His promises without fail, even when we are unfaithful, He remains faithful.
2 Timothy 2:13 (KJV): “If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.”
However, even that simple promise we make can be so deep that it reaches the heavens, is heard by the Lord, moves Him to mercy, and grants us a place in His Kingdom. And while we live on earth, we can also enjoy His benefits—not necessarily material, but rather spiritual—the kind that bring true peace that money and comfort cannot buy.
If you’re reading this article, let me tell you: nothing material will buy the peace your heart longs for. And when you are sad and distressed, the decision to serve Him will remind you that this God is Faithful, and you are not alone. He will always be by your side.