John came to you in the way of righteousness and you did not believe him; but the tax collectors and prostitutes believed him. But you, after you had seen it [his righteousness], did not repent afterwards and believe him.
Jesus came to preach the gospel to the poor (in Spirit) because only those who know they are slaves to sin, can hear His gospel offer to destroy the sin in them and free them indeed.
we must follow Jesus. How do we follow Jesus? We silently listen and obey him teaching us to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts, and how to live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world