Jesus moved His 'learners' to His 'delegates.' The commentary is careful to point out that Jesus is giving this assignment to a specific group for a specific group at a specific time: the disciples, for the nation of Israel, at the closing of Christ's ministry. Our commission is over in the book of Acts if you would like to check it out (1:8), but in short we are to be witnesses everywhere! God has not changed but His purposes for us differ.
There is so much meat in this chapter, you all would delete if I tried to cover it all. I'll pick just a few principles that the Spirit impressed on my heart to share. I would love it if some of you would share how the Lord spoke to you!
Generosity: Early in the chapter the the disciples were told that they had received freely and were to give freely. Jesus modeled generous giving, and He shares His inheritance with we unworthy ones. Toward the end of the chapter, Jesus says that the reward for receiving is equal to the reward possessed by the giver. When we receive from God, we are immensely blessed. Giving out what we have received does not impoverish us but it enriches another. How cool is that?!
Danger & Suffering: Serpents can be dangerous. Doves can be in danger. Our lives are to balance both realities. Christ has given us power and protection. Recognizing His provision removes fear and allows us to take His life-giving power to others. Suffering may well come but we are not to fear it because truth is not confined to this earth. Our eternal souls are safe in Jesus.
Treasures: Our confidence comes with knowing the treasure we are to God. The God of the Universe, the Creator, the power source of all, loves you and me. His perfect love does cast out all fear!
Peace & Passion: A passion for Christ offers eternal peace but not necessarily earthly peace. We are and will remain at odds with those who do not embrace Truth. We are not to be distracted from the good news of reconciliation by the earthly realities of conflict.
May we rest in His love and power to use us for restoring relationships!
No comments:
Post a Comment