Matthew 10:7 And proclaim as you go, saying, 'The kingdom of heaven is at hand.' (ESV)
The mission of the twelve is virtually identical with the mission of Jesus. He is training them to do as He does. He is preparing them to continue the mission after His departure. They proclaim the same message, do the same miracles (v. 8), endure similar persecution (v. 18-23), receive the same reception (v. 40).
We are His ambassadors (v. 14-15). Our mission is to continue to do the same works as Jesus (both spiritual and physical). Our reception will be very similar: some will welcome our message others will hate it. Our speech should be Spirit-led (v. 20). We needn't worry much about those who are uninterested (v. 23). Just go, proclaim, do. The mission is urgent. Our goal is to be like Jesus (v. 25). That's why we're called followers!
I am Your mouthpiece. I am unqualified. A simple working-man. But I am sent. Teach me, Lord Jesus, to fear not (v. 31). Teach me to depend on the Spirit. Teach me to accept the same pay as You (v. 8). Teach me to find fulfillment in self denial (v. 39). Teach me to proclaim. Teach me about authority (v. 1). I am Yours: body & soul, mind & strength, spirit. I worship you Jesus as King and present myself as a living sacrifice.
In Your name - Amen,
Son
Showing posts with label Miracles. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Miracles. Show all posts
Friday, January 11, 2013
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Solitude
Matthew 14:23 And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, (ESV)
Solitude. Time away, with the Father. This was critical in the life and ministry of Jesus. He does it twice here in a very short span (see also v.13). And after each time of withdrawal a great miracle/time of ministry followed (the feeding of the 5000, v. 15f and Peter & Jesus walking on the water, v. 25f). The second is not only a miracle providing "strong evidence for the divine identity of Jesus" (Literary Study Bible, p. 1480), but a time of ministry and teaching to Peter on faith.
Brad, you are certainly no better than Jesus. An annual get away to reflect, pray, goal-setting, pray, read, pray (that's what Jesus did in His solitude). This daily time is invaluable in your ability to minister to others. You can't give what you don't have!
Oh God, fill me up. I have no skills to lead a small group in my home tonight except the Holy Spirit. Lord Jesus, give me wisdom I ask. God my Father, strengthen me, for I know not what to do. I am not an eloquent speaker. Come Holy Spirit.
In Jesus' name - Amen,
Son
Solitude. Time away, with the Father. This was critical in the life and ministry of Jesus. He does it twice here in a very short span (see also v.13). And after each time of withdrawal a great miracle/time of ministry followed (the feeding of the 5000, v. 15f and Peter & Jesus walking on the water, v. 25f). The second is not only a miracle providing "strong evidence for the divine identity of Jesus" (Literary Study Bible, p. 1480), but a time of ministry and teaching to Peter on faith.
Brad, you are certainly no better than Jesus. An annual get away to reflect, pray, goal-setting, pray, read, pray (that's what Jesus did in His solitude). This daily time is invaluable in your ability to minister to others. You can't give what you don't have!
Oh God, fill me up. I have no skills to lead a small group in my home tonight except the Holy Spirit. Lord Jesus, give me wisdom I ask. God my Father, strengthen me, for I know not what to do. I am not an eloquent speaker. Come Holy Spirit.
In Jesus' name - Amen,
Son
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