John 2:11 This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him.

One of the lies we tell ourselves in Christianity is that we are followers of Jesus Christ and therefore we are saved. A stray cat follows me home, is that cat mine? Here in the early pages of the gospel of John is an easily overlooked lesson on following Jesus.

The miracle done in us is being born again by God. We cannot just declare ourselves to be born in the spirit by force of will, it is an act of God. Secondly is the manifestation of Christ in you, His glory, not your own. Then we believe on Him, not in Him.

The stray cat may believe that I will save it. That is a belief in me but if I do not take the cat in and adopt it, that belief is in vain. Once I adopt the cat, feed the cat and care for it, the cat believes on me because of what I am doing because it is mine.

Romans 8:15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.

When we merely follow Jesus we lie to ourselves to say we are saved if that miracle of change has not been performed. You can walk in His footsteps but that does not make the path your own.

Matthew 7:22-23 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

Following is not the same as being adopted.