In John 21 Peter's leadership is redeemed and he is urged to follow the lead of the good shepherd who "lays down his life for the sheep". Yet there appears to be another leader - there's that "disciple whom Jesus loved". What about him? Is he going to have to lay down his life, too?
I've wondered about the significance of living a good life versus those who lay their live on the line daily. There is a magazine I receive occasionally called "The Voice of the Martyrs" (their website is http://www.persecution.com/). It is very humbling to see what some people have to deal with when they profess to be Christian in some parts of the world. Have you ever wondered about the worth of your witness and if you are doing "enough"?
One way to look at the worth of all disciples is to look the breakfast story. Everybody had fish to eat. Not just Peter and "the beloved disciple". Jesus' gifts are for everyone.
Now we move on to Acts. Taking the gospel to the "remotest part of the earth" will be a major theme. Even to Samaria - to people that were considered hostile and wrong-headed. Ever know anyone like that? Maybe even a neighbor or family member?!
The Ascension is a prelude to the empowerment that ALL the disciples are about to receive. Jesus will be able to help them from a higher vantage point where he can see to the ends of the earth.
Acts 1:16-20 describes what happened to Judas. The book of Acts will tell the stories of how God punishes the wicked. There will be judgement.
The definition of an apostle is in verses 21 and 22 - one who has been a follower from the Baptism until the Ascension. With the selection of new leaders some denominations over the last 2000 years believed that these that are chosen also received special abilities and authority. This is called "apostolic succession".
I love that after Peter addresses the crowd in Acts 2 that people were "cut to the heart" and were then baptized. I am always amazed when the Holy Spirit cuts me to the heart, He does it when He corrects me and when He gives me joy. In August, during the Leadership Summit, I am always cut to the heart by all the speakers. I hope many people join me and some staff and clergy and lay people as we go this year. Marilyn invited me a 5 years ago and I have been going every year since then.
ReplyDelete