Here are men who have been called by Jesus; invited to be in his inner circle. A front seat with the Master. He gave them authority to drive out all demons and cure diseases. (v.1-2) He reminded them that He himself would be their provision. Take nothing with you as you minister the Good News. (v.3)
The disciples are still students and we are about to embark on an object lesson. The multitudes have gathered, and they are hungry. What is the response from the students? “We only have 5 loaves and 2 fish.” (v.13) How quickly we forget that God himself is our provision.
FORGETFULNESS
It’s getting personal now. There is an inquiry, "who Jesus is?"
“But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” (v.20) Peter acknowledges that Jesus is the Christ.
Now that we have established authority, Jesus tells his students, “don’t tell anyone.” (v.21) He further explains that he must be killed and that he will rise again on the third day. “For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it. What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit their very self? Whoever is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.” (v.24-26)
Liz do you still want to follow? You must deny yourself, take up your cross. (v.23)
DENY YOURSELF
As the Father commends his son from glory, what are we doing? Are we sleeping? Stay alert!
“This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to him.” (v.35)
LISTEN
The teacher once again shows his authority as he sets free a boy tormented by an evil spirit. The request came from a father, “Teacher, I beg you to look at my son, for he is my only child.”. With just one look the authority is established! “Jesus rebuked the impure spirit, healed the boy and gave him back to his father.” (v.42)
What was the trouble here? Jesus lets us know. “You unbelieving and perverse generation.” (v.41)
The students have a lot more to learn. Jesus reminds them again, “The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men.” (v.44)
Still want to follow? Where is my trust & faith? Did Jesus say, unbelieving?
DOUBT
He is leaving soon. But he promises to send His Spirit.
I’ll follow you Jesus, but can you let everyone know that I am the best? I would like that important seat next to you. Really, you know I’m your right-hand man or women! Well we know the scriptures does not say it like that, but it might as well. (v.46-48)
Humility, where is it?
PRIDE
Jealously arises and Jesus speaks.
“Master,” said John, “we saw someone driving out demons in your name and we tried to stop him, because he is not one of us.” “Do not stop him,” Jesus said, “for whoever is not against you is for you.”
The interesting thing here is that they were just chastised for not being able to deliver the little boy from and evil spirit. Now they are jealous that someone else did. Lord help us!
Their hearts still need change. When the Samaritans would not welcome Jesus, they asked the Lord if they should call fire on them. “But Jesus turned and rebuked them.” (v55)
JEALOUSLY
So much to learn as a student of the Lord. We don’t always have God’s intentions, because we often act and speak out of our own desires.
Scripture reads that pride is the downfall of man. Humility is a reliance on God and not our own flesh. “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:6-7)
I’ll put it like this: Humility is freedom from arrogance and pride. Those who operate in humility are able to achieve excellence by using their God-given gifts and talents without having to self-promote themselves. This perspective allows us to see the strengths of others. Humility does not mean that we lower our standards or that leadership is less effective. Humility speaks volumes. It allows us to excel in relationships and we are often noted as peace-makers. Leaders who motivate and promote others to achieve their best, to use their gifts and talents and overall improve in their area of influence are practicing a freedom from pride.
We have a lot to learn. I’m thankful that God is able to get to the root of my heart and it still pleases him to use me.
Still want to follow Jesus? Yes, Lord I am your servant, your student and ready to listen.
I have some much to learn, a transformation that only the Spirit of God can do.
OBJECT LESSON: So, I just finished writing on humility. I get a call from my husband and here I go. The Spirit of the Lord gave me an opportunity to practice humility. My words, my conversation should have been gentler. I should have been quick to listen and slow to speak. So what do I do. I call him back an apologize for my rudeness. Ouch, object lessons hurt but they also refine.
Back to the classroom! I'm a perpetual student.
"He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered and said, “The Christ of God.” (Luke 9:20)
