This morning, I came across a powerful story behind the hymn, “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus.” It’s a story of unwavering faith, even in the face of unimaginable opposition.

The story takes us to India, where missionaries were sharing the gospel with tribal communities. A man, along with his wife and two children, embraced Jesus as their Savior. When the tribal chief learned of their conversion, he demanded they renounce their faith publicly—or face death.

The man’s response was resolute: “I have decided to follow Jesus. No turning back, no turning back.”

In his anger, the chief ordered the execution of the man’s two children. Even then, the man stood firm. When the chief offered to spare his wife’s life if he would denounce Jesus, the man replied: “Though no one joins me, still I will follow. No turning back, no turning back.”

The chief then ordered his wife’s death. Finally, he gave the man one last chance to renounce his faith. The man’s final words were: “The cross before me, the world behind me. No turning back, no turning back.” He was killed immediately after.

But the story doesn’t end there. The chief, deeply shaken by the family’s faith, began to question what could inspire such courage and conviction. Moved by the Holy Spirit, he declared, “I too belong to Jesus Christ!” His confession led the entire village to embrace Christ as their Savior.

This story brings to mind the words of Jesus in John 12:26 (CSB): “If anyone serves me, he must follow me. Where I am, there my servant also will be. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him.” It’s a reminder of the cost—and reward—of being faithful followers of Christ.

This resonates deeply, especially in light of recent events. Thousands of Christians in Syria have faced persecution and death for their faith. Just yesterday, I saw a video of a street evangelist who continued preaching even after someone pointed a gun at his head and walked away in anger.

These moments remind us of the strength that comes from standing on the solid rock of Christ. They show us what it means to hold fast to Christ, no matter the cost.

As the hymn says: 

“The cross before me, the world behind me. 
No turning back, no turning back.”