"Making Good Connections" (Luke 10:1-12)

Introduction

How do we best invest the time we have available to make connections and build relationships?

If we have a desire to share the good news of Jesus, how might we start?

As always, the Bible can help guide our deliberations.

And we have turned to Luke chapter 10, where Jesus has sent his followers out on mission.

But we would have to translate this into something that would be relevant to our time and culture.

Yet the principles remain the same.

What can we make of this for today?

How would we apply this text in today’s situation?

What takes your eye??

The Text

What do you find interesting??

1.     Sent to places that Jesus “intended to go” (v.1b). Jesus sent out seventy (or seventy-two) of his followers two-by-two on a bit of a forward mission – to places and people that Jesus himself was interested in. These Jesus-followers (or disciples) were to be ‘agents’ of Jesus. Oops … do we know Jesus well enough to be his representatives? Well … we have the witness of the Gospels to how Jesus lived and the sort of character he displayed. And we can be assured of the inner witness to Jesus that the Holy Spirit brings to us (Matthew 28:20b). An ‘agent’ of Jesus will shine for Jesus, with inklings of love, joy, peace and hope.

Having said this, it is also our raw human experiences (both positive and negative) that can often allow us to connect with others. People need to see the real us, not a person covered over by multiple layers of ‘acceptability protection’. We need to be open, if others are going to be able to get to know us, and come to truly trust us as a friend. How we handle downturns, and how God has turned things around for us, can be hugely relevant to other people. So, we, as we are, yet growing in faith, represent Jesus as his hands and feet; meaning sometimes bringing words of encouragement, and other times a practical helping ministry.

2.     “In pairs” two-by-two (v.1a) – just like the dual witnesses required in Jewish courts … where one witness may be doubted, two provide much more credibility. This also brings companionship, teamwork and accountability; working together as families or with friends. We don’t see ourselves as individuals … each with our own brand, but rather we work in combination, and in cooperation, under the single brand name … of ‘Jesus’.

3.     “The harvest is plentiful” (v.2a). Jesus conceded that there was a big job to do … there are many people who are ready to respond … seeds have been planted that have taken root and produced plants with the potential of fruit. God has been preparing the way. There are never enough people to bring in all the harvest. We should never conclude that no one is interested … only that we need new ways of connecting with the people that God is preparing the way with. That of course takes us to prayer, and hearing from God.

4.     The call to prayer … “ask the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers” (v.2b). Why the need to pray – God could just do this!? To build relationship, and to bring forward faith that would partner with God in a commitment to the harvest. These ‘disciples’ had already been sent, but now were put in a more prayerful frame of mind concerning the immensity of the mission, and the need for more workers. At the same time as praying though, they had to go … “Go on your way”. And in their going, they were actually committing themselves to being part of the answer (to their own prayers). Pray for “labourers” … oh, yes, I’m a labourer … that means me … off I go! We don’t have to be especially ‘called’ and ‘sent’ … each of us has already been called and sent. We don’t have to discover our mission field … we already have one.

There is even more to this combined prayer/action dynamic. This is outstandingly brilliant mission theology from Jesus and Luke! It is actually the people we are prayerfully and faithfully connecting with, who are the future “labourers”. Disciples are only disciples if they are making more disciples!! So, those who receive the gospel from us also become answers to this prayer (as they too replicate the same sort of activity). The “labourers” we are praying for are the ones we will make contact with. There is the indication here, that those that we ‘enlist’ … will never be self-interested ‘pew-sitters’, nor passive ‘consumers’, but rather active disciples and co-workers. Thus the prayer request is really about success in mission.

Many people set their clock alarms to 10:02 … to remind them to regularly pray for more “labourers”. Why 10:02? Luke 10:2. However, we would certainly misunderstand this text if praying was all we did. So the prayer and labouring go on hand-in-hand – one cannot do without the other … the labouring needs prayer behind it and with it, and the prayer needs to be accompanied by movement in the direction of God’s guiding. That’s why prayer-walking around a neighbourhood can be so illuminating … prayer with real intent to connect … moving towards those God is already preparing (and seeking to draw to Himself).

5.     “I am sending you out like lambs into the midst of wolves” (V.3b). These disciples would certainly be out of their comfort zone … facing various levels of opposition and challenge, hence the need for faith. Mission is just not easy! The message may be great, but there will still (inevitably) be mixed reactions. And the difficulties and darkness that exists … is likely to touch us and even abide with us for a time, especially because we really care. Just as well then we’re a team, and we can rely on each other for spiritual and emotional support.

6.     They should travel lightly (v.4) … go without a load or unnecessary weight, with no distractions, without ties, without the need for comfort, and without delay. There is a sense of urgency … in a sense the “harvest” could rot in the field if it is not gathered in soon. Jesus had taught, in the passage just before this, that, “no one who puts a hand to the plough and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God” (9:62). We can see here … that all mission for Jesus … is necessarily carried out in utter dependence on God. It is God (seen in Jesus) that is central in this. We go without resources of our own, to ensure that we firmly rely on God’s resources.

7.     Where do we go (v.5)? This is where we need to take the basic principles here and apply them to our modern context. We don’t move so much from town to town; but rather from person to person (within the one general area around where we live), from house to house, from family to family, from shop to shop, from opportunity of ministry to the next opportunity of ministry. Again, this would involve prayer – listening for God’s leading where to go – discerning where limited resources might be best spent.

We might consider where God has already granted us favour with certain people (who don’t know Jesus), or where a clear door of opportunity has already opened. Also, there are people that we seem to have a natural affinity with, where we may, over time, gain the necessary trust to share Jesus with them. Then there are people who seem to already exhibit Jesus-like attributes, who might be described as not far from the ‘Kingdom’. We might also embrace or seek out those people we think will likely respond, as they have already been prepared (by God) beforehand.

Yet we never close the possibilities on anyone. It may actually be … that we are drawn toward the more ‘unlikely’, just as the ‘angel’ spoke of the coming of the Saviour into the world to the most unlikely of all … the most untrustworthy of all … the shepherds in the field (Luke 2:8-20).

8.     Sharing in the peace (v.6). Because we are open to receive hospitality, and more ready to listen than speak, we come almost empty-handed, being open for mutual ministry. We might join together to discuss mutual concerns about the neighbourhood or nation. [For example, our local Alpine RAR group]. We look to bring encouragement, and lighten (or share) the load that others are currently bearing. We certainly look for Jesus in the other. We certainly don’t head for either extreme … we neither ‘accommodate’ – which is watering down our witness to whatever we think will be acceptable; nor do we ‘dominate’ – which is beating people down who may disagree with our beliefs.

People today will not easily concede to just simple belief in the Bible, but rather will want to see how it is lived, how it works, and how it is practiced with integrity and love. We might just have the privilege of surprising some people out of the stereo-types they have held about ‘Christians’, e.g. that they are all rigid, judgmental, institutionally-inclined (rather than relational), gullible, weak, irrelevant. We can actually show that we listen, think and feel, as well as speak.

When we find a house like described in verse 6, or people like this, where the peace we bring seems to “rest”, we should invest our time in deepening this relationship – here is a natural opening. Such a person as this, will likely go on from becoming a new follower of Jesus, very naturally to one who will ‘make’ disciples of others. These have become known in the church planting movement as ‘people of peace’. They are often very well networked and social people. They are not only easy for us to connect with, but they are also well-connected enough to instantly start ministering to others.

We should be careful to not make judgments too quickly, as some of these ‘people of peace’ may not be who we might have first predicted. We can sometimes miss the obvious. The Samaritan woman at the well (in John’s Gospel chapter 4), who’d had that series of husbands and partners, and who had little understanding of spiritual matters to begin with, became quite the evangelist after meeting with Jesus.

9.     “Remain in the same house (v.7ff)”. We shouldn’t rush on too quickly; we should settle down with them in friendship and accept their hospitality. Jews may not have been used to what was served at a Gentile table. We might be alarmed at how some people live … with vastly different customs to us. The point here is to NOT put up unnecessary barriers to hospitality, and to relationship, and to sharing the good news. We don’t come with a product to sell, but rather with an openness to relationship. We don’t expect people to buy straight into a bundle of beliefs, rather just simply connect with Jesus.

We don’t come with pride and feelings of superiority, but rather with humility and gentleness – it just so happens that someone shared Jesus with us, and many others have not been so fortunate. In forming relationships with people like this, we may start to make real inroads of blessing … the “seventy” had the possibility of curing the sick (v.9a) – who knows what ‘ills’ we can bring a ministry (of healing) into.

10.Wiping the dust off our feet (v.11). Sometimes we think it will be okay, but it could turn out that the “peace” we came with … is thrown back in our face. Well, no harm done, we gave it a try, we did all we could, we can’t always read situations properly – maybe someone else will have a better chance … we are part of a team approach. It is likely then … to be a good use of resources, and our own energy levels, to move on. Sometimes we will be outright rejected, but we shouldn’t allow our enthusiasm and faith to be dented by this – we need to move on without guilt to the next opportunity. And even in the context of rejection, the light of Jesus has shone out!

Conclusion

I have made a big assumption!?! That we want to share our faith. That it is the most exciting thing about our life, and we want to share that. Another assumption would be that we have a concern for the lost … for their life, for their well-being. No matter how a person’s life looks on the outside … without Jesus … it lacks something pretty crucial. We cannot just keep Jesus to within the walls of the church. We cannot ignore the need of the world.

This passage sets forth what remains a significant prayer and practical challenge. Yet I hope that you can sense how it is written with high expectations for the outcome. This is God’s mission in Jesus, which the Holy Spirit will continue to enliven. God goes ahead of us, always!

Just a few verses later we read, “The seventy returned with joy, saying, ‘Lord in your name even the demons submit to us’!” (Luke 10:17). So there was high impact, responded to with joy. Clearly there was deep spiritual work done. But the reference here to “even the demons” means that there was all sorts of other great ministry, relationship building, discovering ‘people of peace’, and sharing of the Gospel. And on top of this, the disciples worst fears concerning opposition, and the power of evil that might fall against them, were completely dispelled! Jesus was with them.

Christmas may be a time when conversations about Jesus become easier or less unnatural. Instead of the normal closed minds, they may be a little point of softness or openness. Blessings upon your sharing of Jesus this Christmas season! May you find some ‘people of peace’. May you share with them richly. Amen!

"Hearing from God" (Proverbs 2:1-11)

Introduction

Early in 1956, during racial tensions in the US, Dr Martin Luther King Jr couldn’t sleep. He had received a threatening phone call that terrified him. So Dr King prayed, confessing that, despite the rightness of his cause, he was faltering, losing courage, and becoming weak. He was afraid that if he lost strength, then so would all those depending upon his leadership. Dr King prayed, “I am at the end of my powers … I can’t face it alone”.

Later, Dr King wrote: “At that moment I experienced the presence of the Divine, as I never experienced Him before. It seemed as though I could hear the quiet assurance of an inner voice saying, ‘Stand up for righteousness, stand up for truth; and [I your] God will be at your side forever’. Almost at once my fears began to go. My uncertainty disappeared. I was ready to face anything.” [source: “A Story is Told” from Our Daily Bread Ministries.]

Previously

Last week we looked at praying together in a united way. Praying like this builds our relationship with God, as well as committing us to a faithful partnership with God in embracing His purposes. So when we pray, “Our Father, who is in heaven, hallowed be your name” – we are acknowledging and building our relationship with our Creator and Saviour. Then when we go on to pray, “Your Kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it [already] is in heaven”, we are at the same time pledging our commitment to partner God in this cause.

Two-Way Communication

We can easily, once we decide to pray, share words with God – words of praise, thanksgiving, reflection, confession, intercession and commitment. But what might God be saying back, and how can we hear this? How can God speak to us?

Sometimes we will hear something from another person, in the context of a prayer session, that really hits the mark. Time proves that this came from God to us through another human channel.

God speaks most assuredly through His Word – the Holy Scriptures, especially as we prayerfully approach them looking for guidance. Sometimes the answer will jump off the page; other times we will have to go searching. God can also speak as you hear the Word expounded by teachers and preachers, by evangelists, prophets and pastors. These are often important times to have your ears open, as much time and effort has likely gone into studying, understanding and applying these Holy Scriptures. God speaks most clearly, especially about Himself, about His own identity and character, through the life and ministry of Jesus. Do we want to hear what God is like … then we attend to the words and actions of Jesus … and through this God speaks.

Why listen?

Why do we need to listen to God?? To answer this I zeroed in on Proverbs chapter 2. The answer here … is that God desires us to grow. We don’t just receive Jesus as our Saviour, claiming his sacrifice, gladly grabbing his great gift of grace, then sit passively back … just staying as we are! Or we shouldn’t!! We can’t actually, because there is no sincerity attached to this. Clearly God desires us to grow in our lives, becoming more like Jesus! God wants us to grow in our relationship with Him, and also with those others we worship with, and live amongst.

Even those words of solace we might hear, have the ultimate purpose of us growing toward the potential born within us. We are being called forward into God’s mission to the world, and this involves our desire to grow. Why does God speak to us – because he wants us to grow! Why do we listen?? Because we want to grow!! And this growth is not just for our own benefit, but also for all those that God wants to bless through us.

We see here, in Proverbs 2, some of the most important aspects of growing in God. Here are words we should easily embrace – wisdom, understanding, insight, the knowledge of God, prudence (or discretion); and the good paths of justice, righteousness and equity. This is what we need to hear about. This is what we need to aspire to. We should be like the young Samuel who said to the Lord, “Speak, for your servant is listening” (1 Samuel 3:10). But … where do we start?

Opening the Lines of Communication

AN INVITATION TO REPENTANCE

There are some “ifs” in this passage – “if” you accept, “if” you cry out, “if” you seek it. It seems to me that we have to really sincerely want to hear God and grow in God if it is going to happen. Growth doesn’t just happen … it has to be sought. And other things can get in the way – there are so many distractions that take our time and attention. And nothing takes our eyes off God quicker than a focus on self … one’s own needs and desires. This tunnel-visioned approach to life … cuts us off from the big picture … of what God wants to achieve … in the community and the world. We can’t possibly hear from God clearly … while having such a restricted outlook. The worship of self (and any other alternative ‘god’), diminishes the possibility of hearing from God.

So, what is required? Change – a comprehensive change! The biblical word is ‘repentance’. The text of Proverbs, with its use of “if” invites us to the place of ‘repentance’. The “if” words … ask us if we are truly willing to engage with God. What is it that is interrupting the possibility of wisdom, understanding and growth coming upon us?! That’s what we have to deal with … to properly open up the lines of communication from God to us. This is like having all the right apparatus, like two perfectly shaped and operating ears, but internally having them blocked with wax. Or, conversely, whenever anything overly-challenging gets mentioned, that you reckon maybe has the ring of truth, but you still don’t want to deal with it … the hands go up and fingers go in the ears.

There were people panning for gold down at the river in the past week, their eyes fixed looking for that little flicker of gold. Are we really focussed on gaining wisdom and understanding (and those other capacities) from God … as if it is the greatest treasure in the universe?

‘Repentance’ is to turn away from a false god (which could be ourselves or ambition or money or worldly obsessions) and turn towards the One True Creator Saviour God. ‘Repentance’ is to empty one’s life of the negative and destructive, and fill it with the fruit of the Holy Spirit. ‘Repentance’ is to acknowledge that the only dynamic that can fill the God-shaped void in our lives … is God. ‘Repentance’ is to let go of incorrect views of God, that make us think in terms of revenge, control and domination, and replace these with appropriate characteristics of mercy, kindness and love. Leave behind what means nothing – and take Jesus on board as your friend.

This has all become possible, because Jesus, on the cross, has given us grace, forgiven us, and opened the way for a new future. This word ‘repent’ is the first thing God will say to us, so that, as we do, we will be able to hear more! I will quickly concede though, that there is something else that God has said to all of us before this!?!? “My child” (Prov.2:1). God has first, in so many ways, spoken to us of his love for us … from the womb to the present, and is assured into the future. So this desire for relationship, growth and repentance is firmly founded on the basis of God’s love.

From “Saturate” by Jeff Vanderstelt, page 107:

Repentance is turning away from a wrong view or definition of God, or from a person or thing that you have looked to as God, and turning to the true God and the truth about God as revealed in Jesus. Repentance happens when we are ignorant about an aspect of God’s character or being, and the Spirit brings illumination to our hearts, leading us to know him in a new way. It also takes place when the Spirit reveals our unbelief about God and leads us to believe a particular truth about God. Lastly, [repentance] takes place when the Spirit convicts us that we have wilfully rebelled against God, leading us to desire obedience to God in a particular area of our lives.

Once we have heard God’s voice in terms of ‘repentance’ and responded in the way we need to, then the lines of communication have become much more open. The Holy Spirit is now able to bring things to our attention. We are much more ready for the Holy Spirit to point us to Jesus (as revealed in God’s Word).

AN OFFER OF GUIDANCE

We can pray for guidance over so many issues and challenges. And we can sense God speaking to us. As we said earlier, this can come through other people. Our surest guide, of course, is the Bible, which we have free access to ... to just open and read and appreciate. The best use of the Bible is a consistent study, often with some notes or commentary to help us along. Plucking individual verses out of context, especially just to proof-text something we reckoned anyway, is not a good approach. We need to appreciate that the Bible was written in different times to ours and within different cultures; so much care should be given to proper interpretation. At the same time, some of the Bible’s teaching, especially Jesus’ teaching, is already clearer than the nose on your face, and is just waiting to be obeyed.

Hearing the Bible explained at church is good – hopefully engaging with the discussion and sometimes being ready to add a contribution. Bible study within small/home groups, where people learn together, brings various different aspects of understanding. Writing down our thoughts and learnings, often called journaling, is a great tool for many. As we read God’s Word, we continually pray for understanding, and look for how this passage may specifically guide us. The wisdom in the Bible, especially around the person of Jesus, offers everyday direction for how to live the best life possible (Vanderstelt).

All our goals and plans need to be guided by God. So we need to be continually prayerful about these, seeking God’s best. Sometimes this is tricky. We read in another Proverb, “Sometimes there is a way that seems to be right, but in the end it is the way to death” (16:25). This emphasises even more our need of God’s wisdom. And we have to be alert, on the ball, quick on our feet … to adjust to all the changing circumstances around us … to still be in the right (physical and spiritual) space. This also means being open and ready for something different than you imagined (or maybe preferred). Only God has a complete knowledge of all events, therefore only God ultimately knows what is best (for each and every person … and creation itself)!

Acts chapter 10 records a particular incident where the leading of God's Spirit was paramount. A God-seeking and generous Gentile named Cornelius had a vision concerning making contact with a certain Peter. Clearly Cornelius was looking for more in his spiritual life, and thus was open to receiving this sort of guidance. At the same time, Peter was having a dream which challenged him to put old ideas aside, and wholeheartedly embrace mission beyond the Jews to the Gentiles.

God was preparing both for an upcoming encounter: Peter to think differently, and Cornelius to not give in to fear as to how he might be received. When they eventually met up, Peter enthusiastically shared the good news about Jesus, and Cornelius and his whole household believed and were baptised (with both the Spirit and water). For this great outcome to occur, both Peter and Cornelius had to be open to God's guidance, even when it came unexpectedly. Cornelius and his household had come to know Jesus, and Peter had seen results out of his obedient ministry.

Being well tuned into God, allows us to be reliably directed to call on someone. Many of us would have received that undeniable and compelling message to make a phone call or knock on a door. And when we obey, we sense at least two things: that God has prepared the way for us, and that we were quite an appropriate person to make the contact … given the particular need. A natural extension of this … is to actively ask God for specific opportunities to bless others, and then being attuned to how such opportunities might open.

God’s guidance is most helpful … when considering such life-shaping areas as life-partners and careers and geographical moves. Also, for me and many others, when confronted with so many areas of injustice at home and abroad … with the strong possibility of being overwhelmed – God’s Spirit can guide us into those areas of advocacy and service that are most natural for us.

GIVING SKILLS IN DISCERNMENT

There is a particular spiritual gift of discernment. However, like many of the ‘gifts of the Holy Spirit’ spoken of in the New Testament, discernment is something we all need to have a fair slice of. This is to be able to say the right thing at the right time. More to the point possibly, this is so that we won’t say the wrong thing at the wrong time. So we have a building discretion about the sort of language, words and stories we use in different contexts. What are the commendable and helpful things to post on Facebook or social media, and what are not (Philippians 4:8)?!

So the small voice of God can often be heard saying … ‘maybe you might have not said that, or found a more appropriate phrase’. This is not so much to chastise us, as to help us get it right the next time. Growing in discernment … allows us to much more clearly and quickly determine … what is good and what is evil, what is right and what is wrong, what is truth and what is error, where motives are pure or motives are agenda-ridden (and compromised).

Because we are guided in God’s ways, Jesus’ disciples (i.e. us) can look around and see where things are not as they ought to be. Does this look like God’s Kingdom? What is the Spirit of God saying? Are the hungry being fed? Are the naked being clothed? Are the broken being brought back to health? Are the disconnected being shown hospitality? Are the captives being set free? Are the lost being found? Through this discernment, and our follow-up activity, we can embrace the vision of Isaiah – where he says, “you shall be called the repairer of the breach – the restorer of streets to live in” (58:12b).

"We should always be ready to be the means through which God blesses others" (Jeff Vanderstelt). We can also, at very significant times, be given a very special word for someone … that must have come from God, as it had never before occurred to us. Sometimes we would be wise to sit with this for a little while, to prayerfully test whether it is indeed from God … completely free of our particular agenda. Speaking into other people’s lives is a very serious matter, that we should be rightly cautious about. So, if we sense that God had spoken to us, for the benefit of another, we would also be wise to share it with another trusted person first (to be held accountable that it is truly agenda-free and also consistent with a fair understanding of God’s Word).

Sometimes we pray for someone, and a word DOESN’T come to US. But if we sincerely pray that someone else receives encouragement from God, then that person may receive this directly. Discernment can also help within community decision-making. While different points of view are being broadly discussed in a group, some that have an ear to hear God in that moment, can help clarify the discussion towards where God is leading.

Hearing God on Mission

Hearing from God is not just a personal and intellectual enterprise. We best hear from God as we engage with the everyday stuff of life, looking for signposts of God’s presence, and utilising all the guidance and discernment that we’ve collected so far. And it is out on the edge, out of our comfort zone (like Peter), where we both need to hear more from God, but also grow because we have heard more from God. Our mission trip into the world of our everyday stuff continues, until Jesus comes to finish the job. God is active in the world, wanting to draw us into His plans. When God seems absent or hidden to us, or darkness seems to be prevailing, we will likely need to look harder and listen better. When the lines of communication seem blocked, we know that it is very possible that ‘repentance’ is required.

"The whole essence of the spiritual life consists in recognising the designs of God for us [right] at the present moment" (Jean-Pierre de Caussade as quoted in BST Commentary on Proverbs). Dear God … what are you saying to us right now?!

"United Prayer" (Acts 4:23-31)

Context

At the beginning of chapter 3, Peter and John, now filled with the Holy Spirit, came across a man (more than forty years old) who had been lame from birth. This man was begging at the temple gate. Peter said to the man, “I have no silver or gold, but what I have I give you; in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, stand up and walk” (3:6). Peter then took him by the hand and lifted him up – and this man felt his feet and ankles become strong. He began to walk, and entered the temple … “walking and leaping and praising God” (3:8).

This all attracted a bit of a crowd, whereby Peter was able to speak. Peter identified God as the One who had made this miracle happen. But he also pointed out that it was faith in the resurrected Jesus that had enabled Peter and John to be God’s channel of healing to this man; and by the way … this was the same Jesus that the people had largely, just recently, rejected and caused to be crucified. The gathered people could not deny that God was working, because they saw the healed man right before them. So this Jesus was God’s long-promised Messiah, and the people heard that they should repent and turn to God for forgiveness. Many ‘believed’ in Jesus that day – about five thousand (4:4).

Now you would imagine that someone was going to get upset with talk like this, especially given the response! This was revolutionary stuff. As chapter 4 unfolds, Peter and John were arrested (by the ruling religious authorities). At the inquiry that followed, Peter again stated that the good outcome for the formerly lame man had come about through the name of Jesus – whom they had crucified, and God had vindicated through resurrection. And now this Jesus is the path to salvation.

The ruling authorities were amazed that these ordinary two men could talk with such boldness. And they could not deny the miracle because there had been so many witnesses. The only thing they could try to do was to silence Peter and John! They could not let this news spread, for it would really upset the apple-cart … it must be contained. Peter and John were ordered not to mention the name of Jesus again. But they refused – Peter and John saying that they could not help but talk about all they had seen and heard; basically saying that they would accept any consequences. As they had only done good, Peter and John had to be released; but they were once again threatened!

What to do?

Under these circumstances, what should Peter and John do now? What would they do? What would we do? We could also feel threatened about sharing the Gospel. Despite wanting to, we could feel uncomfortable about standing out for Jesus. We could even feel reticent to help somebody, if this would bring us under some sort of criticism or attack i.e. standing up for a minority against the majority. Under these circumstances what should we do? Under any threat where should we go?

First, Peter and John re-joined their support community. This was translated here as their “friends” (4:23) … the original Greek indicates that Peter and John went to their “own”!? We could see this as their spiritual community (their church), with as many of the original disciples, and the early and recent converts who were resident close-by. This was their ‘close-circle’ or tight-body’. There they shared what had happened to them, the good and the not-so-good.

There then seemed to be an instant and immediate response from this spiritual community – verse 24 – “when they heard it, they raised their voices together to God …”!! Prayer! Together!! Prayer wasn’t a last resort, nor an after-thought; but rather a natural first action! The seriousness of the situation, combined with their sense of dependence on God, drew them spontaneously to prayer. And they were clearly “together” not only physically, but also spiritually … of ‘one heart and one mind’.

What Prayer? What did they pray?

The prayer starts partway through verse 24 and goes through to verse 30. It’s basic thrust is seeking a free-sharing of the Gospel message despite any impediment (especially political ones). There are elements of praise, reflection, intercession and assurance. For prayer is simply a deep conversation with God (including all of the known factors impinging on the situation at hand). This prayer may have been recited by one, with others adding their ‘Amen’. Or, maybe others in the room were repeating back each sentence as it was delivered by a leader. Or, maybe different people were adding their little bit as the prayer went along. Or, there may have been a variety of voices and prayers going on, and the one that is recorded here is just typical of what was prayed that day.

But clearly there were the basic elements of prayer including:

·        the acknowledgement of the greatness of God (v.24b),

·        the understanding that God had spoken in the past about strong opposition, including against Jesus (citing one of David’s famous psalms – #2 within v.25-28),

·        acknowledging the current threat to God’s servants – that could affect safety and well-being … possibly leading to losing heart or giving in to fear (v.29a),

·        requesting God to intervene … encouraging boldness and the performing of ‘signs’ (v.29b), and,

·        embracing the assurance that God would respond outstandingly (v.30).

Surely these five components would also be relevant components of our prayers today!

There were expressions of praise, reflection, intercession and faith!!

There had always been opposition to God’s ways, as we see in David’s psalm quoted here; and now in Peter’s time, this has been particularly focussed on God’s Messiah Jesus. Yet God will always have the last say; and when all the rulers and the people threw every evil imaginable at Jesus, God brought about his resurrection, and also, the redemption of all the world’s willing. So in this prayer, there is this great assurance that God can change anything toward the good. The worst intentions of world leaders and all humanity can be turned around. And God will have the victory!

Sometimes I prefer to watch my football team play … only after the match is already over and I know we have one. In this way, no matter how badly they kick for goal, or no matter what set-backs occur, I can still watch it with joy … because in the end we win. We can live this life in joy, because we know that, in the end, God will win! Fair to say as well, that the majority of this prayer has that necessary and complete focus on God (with expressions of faith and confidence), which also keeps us in the positive!

We should note also, that this prayer does not ask for the threat to be removed. I wonder why not?! Nor is there any desire expressed to avenge anyone – for the disciples had learned well from Jesus’ teaching. The good news from the word of God was for everyone to embrace, even past and current opponents. Also, there was no request for an easier life. This prayer merely asks God to “look at their threats” (v.29a), or, in other words, for God to ‘know that we are living under pressure’. I wonder why? Is there the sense of inevitability … if you serve Jesus, that means opposition. Or, could it be that threats and opposition … actually set the scene for the most faithful expression of mission and ministry in the world!?

How many of us rush to prayer when things are going well for us (even if they are not for the largely unseen)?! History tells us that the church grows best in number and integrity under persecution. We have to prayerfully deal with threat, be undeterred by opposition, and share the gospel with boldness, just like this text says. And being under some level of opposition may prove that we are having some degree of effectiveness … against some of those principalities and powers that are oppressing people. Thus enduring opposition creatively … can actually advance the purposes of God.

Why Prayer?

Why doesn’t God just do what he wants? God could just make it happen! Why does God stand back, or wait for our prayers?? Why do we need to pray at all? It’s not that we have to convince God of anything he doesn’t already know! It’s just the way God has set up the world. God desires our prayers. We have freewill to seek relationship with God, or ignore him. But God desperately seeks relationship with people, and the purpose of prayer is part of that. Prayer offers a mode of communication between us and God. And through this communication, we can grow in trust and faith, and better know and understand God’s ways.

So if building our relationship with God is the first reason for the need for prayer, what is the second??? God could work alone, but chooses to work through people. God gives the Holy Spirit, so that the life and ministry of Jesus can go forward through us. Thus the second reason for prayer is: partnering with God. God wants to bring us on board with his plans, and use us as channels of blessing to others and the world in general. And God wants to know that we are ready to participate in His Kingdom, through our willingness to sit down and dialogue with Him!

But sometimes we still don’t pray!!

God calls us to prayer, so he knows we are committed to the same outcomes as he is. As we come sincerely to prayer, in the midst of the threats that surround us – what will God do – verse 30 – stretch out His hand to heal … and "signs and wonders" are performed through the name of Jesus. Prayer in some mysterious and magnificent way, releases God’s best intentions. Divine help is near! God is waiting for us to put up our hand and commit to partner with him in bringing out his purposes. And, as was the case for Peter and John, it is "signs" of God’s activity … that give us even more opportunity to speak.

So when frustrations build about the state of things, and while we are considering worthy practical responses – we can ... NO, MUST ... utilise prayer to focus ourselves correctly. Whatever injustice is concerning us, we know that God saw the suffering first. If we can engage with God in prayer, and grow in Him, then we can also wisely partner with God in contributing to the solution.

The Outcome

The church community, that Peter and John were part of, prayed, and something big happened (v.31)! When they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together for prayer … “was shaken”! The room ‘shook’ … with the power of God – this tells us that God was present in a mighty way. Psalm 114:7 reads “Tremble, O earth, at the presence of the Lord”. All of those gathered were “filled with the Holy Spirit”. This is NOT to say that they hadn’t been already, but that it was very evident that they had been, and the power of the Holy Spirit was definitely apparent in their praying. And if anyone had missed the Pentecost blessing, they were getting it now.

And the grace-filled truths of the scriptures, were just popping out of their mouths – the good news about Jesus just could not be restrained! In this way, in the face of threats and opposition, the faithful people’s prayers were ANSWERED!! It wasn’t so much that a particular prayer point was resolved, but just the very presence of God was so mightily experienced, that the opposition seemed particularly irrelevant. In this way, we can maintain our joy, despite the difficulties we face. And God was about to provide "signs and wonders" to accompany the sharing of the gospel.

A little later, in Acts 5:12, we read, “Now many signs and wonders were done among the people through the apostles”. While there may be miraculous healings, those "signs and wonders" today are likely to include extraordinary offerings of mercy, forgiveness and compassion across the tide of normal indifference. These are the "signs and wonders" that God will work through the hearts and hands of his people. This will include radical and random acts of generosity, hospitality and kindness … that automatically point beyond the human … toward Creator God.

Together!

The blessing of the Holy Spirit seems to happen most when God’s people are communicating with Him “together”. So let us make the best of the opportunities we have to pray “together”; and find some new occasions as well. When we gather in large and small groupings, let’s find ways of acknowledging that we have both a higher power and a higher purpose! Let’s focus firmly on God and His Will and His Ways, and thus find our way forward … come what may. In that context, let us seek from God what we think we need, and listen well for what God wants to give us in response.

Postscript

I’m learning that prayer “together” fuels better and wiser ways of communicating and acting in response to the world’s needs. But that is for next week.

"Getting a Hand Up" (Matthew 14:22-36)

Introduction

When Peter began to sink, Jesus “caught him” (v.31).

Life is full of moments where we find ourselves out of our depth, and could possibly sink. Peter did … and Jesus “caught him”.

Those moments could include disappointment, grief, loneliness, hurt, confusion, anger, frustration – all potentially leading to “doubt” … where is God in this? Sometimes my mind gets so full of stuff that I’m disturbed about, I feel that I’m going to explode or collapse! But Jesus ‘catches me’.

Narrative Context

This incident follows the feeding of the five thousand. After such a major effort, it is totally understandable that Jesus wanted a break in which to pray. So Jesus sent his disciples off to their next adventure across the lake, while he himself took the opportunity of some quiet prayer up the mountain.

Later, while still sailing across the water in their boat, the disciples got into a bit of trouble … with a strong and adverse wind and big waves. Following his prayer time, Jesus walked on the water toward where the boat was. It was as if the disciples should NOT have been afraid, because Jesus was close by … but they were afraid. As humans, fear means that we don’t see clearly, and our perspective gets skewed. They didn’t even recognise Jesus! Not seeing properly, and given that the approaching figure was walking on water, the disciples were looking for other explanations, and thought this figure might be a ghost.

Jesus then spoke up to reassure his disciples, and encouraged them to stop being afraid. If Jesus can walk on water, and if the God, who Jesus wholly represents, created the whole universe, then one little storm should not divert these disciples too much! “Take heart, it is I” (v.27).

Peter wasn’t yet wholly convinced – “Lord, if it is you …” (v.28a); he was seeking a bit of proof. But at the same time, if it was Jesus, Peter courageously wanted to emulate his master (v.28b). Peter was willing to get out of the boat, and wanted to have a crack at walking on water, like Jesus was doing (and in very rough weather at that). A little brash perhaps, but why not. This is what a follower does! For Peter to say, “command me to come to you” (v.28b), truly acknowledges this leader and follower relationship. We see an open window of opportunity, and we say, ‘Lord, if it is you, I’m in’! We will soon find out if it is the Lord!!

Peter wanted to walk on water … if Jesus was walking on water. If Jesus could defy danger, Peter wanted to defy danger too! Jesus said on at least one occasion to his disciples, “You will do even greater things” (John 14:12). I don’t think Peter thought that he could actually do this in his own ability, especially not in these storm conditions – so this is an example of believing that Jesus could do something in and through him … lift him to a higher level of experience; or as Bill Crowder puts it, “Peter was “abandoning himself to the ability of Christ”.

Jesus, I think, would admire this boldness, and that Peter would take this risk in front of all his friends – they may have laughed if things went badly. Even though Jesus knew how it would turn out, he gave Peter his chance. God is ready to give us a chance to exercise our leader/follower relationship, knowing that we are unlikely to get it completely right the first time! God is very forgiving of our mistakes; but, may I say, not so instantly understanding or forgiving of [any of] our reluctance!

Jesus said to Peter, “Come” (v.29)! ‘Let’s see what happens’! See how far faith can take you. Peter actually walked on water! In that moment, Peter trusted absolutely in Jesus, and acted on that trust. Peter was a follower of Jesus, not just in theory (but in practice)! For faith is about testing all our resources against the unknown, and in the process, discovering our unique potential as God’s person [Frost & Hirsch].

But Peter was still human, and also just learning. Look at verse 30. Peter was put off by the strong wind. The wind didn’t necessarily get any stronger – we actually read that Peter “noticed the strong wind”. Peter had allowed a circumstance around him to distract him and break his focus. It’s as if he looked around to see if there was anything that could go wrong, and then “noticed” that potentially there was! Peter had moved from a positive faith-filled mindset to a negative doubt-ridden mindset … in the blink of an eye. Peter was originally walking toward Jesus (v.29b), presumably looking straight at Jesus. But when he took his eyes off Jesus, he “noticed” the storm conditions – and they (not he … Jesus) became Peter’s primary reference point. Without Jesus in his ‘minds-eye’, Peter was left with only human resources. Whatever ball-game we play, if we take our eyes off the ball, the outcome goes out the window.

We would not blame him, would we?! Think of all the possible distractions and dangers we encounter on a daily basis, and consider whether any of us could remain completely focussed for any length of time. We would not judge Peter! Jesus didn’t! When we step out in authentic faith and find ourselves in a mess of failure, Jesus does NOT judge us – he loves us for trying.

Peter lost his focus, became frightened at the complexity of his situation – then began to sink (v.30b). Notice that this sinking feeling … followed the fear that had replaced the faith Peter had started out with. It wasn’t the wind and the water that led to Peter beginning to sink, but the fear that had crept in. Fear is the enemy of faith. {As we shall see, ‘doubt’ is only a problem if it is NOT handled properly.}

Peter then did all there was left to do! He cried out to Jesus, “Lord, save me” (v.30b)! Jesus ‘saves’ us the first time that we sincerely repent of our wrongdoing and set our mind on living in a Godly way. We are then ‘saved’. But, we also have to put our salvation and faith into action to have it tested, so we can grow. Thus, in the cut and thrust of life, we often need to be ‘saved’ – sometimes just from ourselves, let alone from all the evil that could impact us. So Peter, a bold and faithful disciple, when he reached a low ebb, cried out, “Lord, save me” … and immediately Jesus “reached out his hand and caught him” (v.31) … he “caught” Peter by the hand … and ‘saved’ him! And Jesus would not let Peter go!

Which is better? To do nothing because it seems too hard – or to give it a go, and have a learning experience? It seems to me that to fail a little and then be “caught” by Jesus, is better than missing the adventure altogether. It seems to me that being “caught” by Jesus is rather a personal and intimate and beautiful possibility, that doesn’t happen if you avoid the challenge. We could apply this to all the challenges of life, but the original context most relates to ‘discipleship’ i.e. the way in which we follow Jesus come what may. It is only those who risk failure that can truly know how powerful and loving Jesus is. Jesus will bring us through wiser and stronger, even while we wear a few bruises.

But Jesus also said something to Peter … NB. while he held his hand (v.31b): “You of little faith, why did you doubt”? We could see this as a bit of a ‘rebuke’; but how this statement was delivered would be all important. In frustration and exasperation? Or in love and compassion?? Given his boldness, and the risk Peter took – I think the latter! In any case, any ‘rebuke’ has to be targeted toward the best outcomes (in a person’s life). Later Jesus would have to say to Peter, “Get behind me Satan”, because Peter had totally misunderstood the nature of Jesus’ ministry (and was trying to influence Jesus into a different direction). Even this ‘rebuke’ was targeted toward Peter’s growth and greater understanding.

A Lesson

The lesson here is that it wasn’t so much wrong to doubt, but unnecessary. And it wasn’t so much wrong to doubt, but wrong to let it grow into fear. What do we do with our doubt? Give it to Jesus, and he will take our hand!! Peter had started to let “doubt” get the better of him, so he had to be “caught” … not just have his hand taken. We may have doubts about God’s existence, whether God really loves us, whether we are really saved, whether our prayers are heard, how come we are so sick, will anything get better, whether others can change, whether I can change, or many other possibilities. Let’s not let doubt undo us – let’s put our doubts into the hands of Jesus, but before we begin to sink.

When ‘doubt’ cuts in, before it takes us away from God and out of fellowship with our brothers and sisters, we should quickly say “Lord, save me”. Mother Teresa, now Saint Teresa, was one who reportedly endured ‘doubt’ because of periods of depression, yet in the hands of Jesus, was able to continue her remarkable ministry of compassion. And we should be sure to catalogue in our memory bank the many times that Jesus has held us and “caught” us in the past. The resolution of our doubt can be growthful for us, because we are reassured of God’s presence. And, we know eventually how Peter, in the hands of the Holy Spirit, was so very effective in sharing the good news and living for Jesus.

This incident resolved with a calming of the seas. Everything had been put right. Jesus and Peter now hand in hand – leader and follower. Courage had been shown … and Jesus had been there for Peter. The other disciples, who had witnessed all this from the boat, worshipped, and concluded that Jesus was indeed the Son of God (v.32). This was then followed by many healings, because people were coming to believe in Jesus (v.36). Don’t we see here … Jesus in two capacities at the same time! The powerful Jesus who makes such a dramatic difference on a broad scale, and also the tender Jesus who takes me personally by the hand – “great enough to deserve our obedience, yet humble enough to call us friends” (JB Schuldt in ODB 11/11/16).

I’m really glad to know that when I hit bottom, or feel that I’m heading that way, or even when shadows are cast across what I believe [with all my heart], that Jesus is close by, and will reach out his hand, and, if necessary, ‘catch’ me. In those times when I’m feeling outside my comfort zone, which is where in ministry you need to be prepared to go {and that’s all of us}, that I’m free of the fear of failure, because if it gets too hot, Jesus will take me by the hand, and, if necessary, ‘catch’ me.

Conclusion

Jesus, please hold my hand. Jesus, when I am falling, please catch me. Thank-you Lord Jesus, that when Peter was doubtful, yet bold, you caught him. Thank-you that you are doing the same for me. For, I am carried in the arms of grace and love Divine. Let us dig deeply into the resources of God. Let us abandon ourselves to the ability of Christ Jesus our Lord and friend. I will rise from waters deep, into the saving arms of God. I will sing salvation songs, Jesus Christ has set me free.

"Treasures in Heaven" (Matthew 6:19-21)

What are "treasures in heaven"? Let's consider how to identify them! These three verses (Matthew 6:19-21) distinguish between "treasures on earth" and "treasures in heaven". Clearly "treasures in heaven", if we compare them to the negative assessment of "treasures on earth", are permanent and eternal, rather than being easily corrupted or subject to sudden loss. Unlike hoarded material things, "treasures in heaven" cannot become moth-eaten, subjected to rust, generally wear out, or be stolen. "Treasures on earth" are just temporary and worthless beyond this life. So here, the relative value of "treasures in heaven" and "treasures on earth" are dramatically contrasted.

"Treasures on earth" can literally just go up in smoke. Earthly power, position and fame for it's own sake, lack any true eternal value. Wealth and luxuries gained purely for personal use, ultimately mean nothing. Greedy accumulation is actually harmful to our soul. 1 Timothy 6:9 reads, "But those who want to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction". And such "treasures on earth" cannot even bring the happiness or security one desires out of them, because these can never fill the void within us (the void that only God can fill). Unfortunately, material acquisition and power have become for many people just as strong an addiction as any drug.

Nice things are not necessarily evil. There are nice pieces of furniture, artworks, jewellery, cars, etc, but it is the possibility of the wrong emphasis they are given that is in view here. It is material things, because of their perceived value, that we might try to protect and secure the most, thereby losing focus on the less tangible but more vital areas of life. Often what we can easily see and touch, blocks us from seeing and feeling the deeper things of life. The anxiety we can form around keeping certain things, can be a major distraction or diversion, diminishing our usefulness to God's purposes.

You might recall the incident when a certain rich young ruler asked Jesus how he could gain eternal life. Jesus perceived the person and the situation perfectly and said, "Go sell your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven - then come follow me" (Matt 19:21). It was not necessarily the possessions themselves that were the problem, but rather the importance they were given. This was not only a case of a better, wiser, more eternal use of resources, but also a potential liberation for a guy who had become possessed by the whole idea of possessions. This we know, because, despite the sincere and seeking question put to Jesus, this man just couldn't do it, and walked away sad.
I'm a bit of a collector, so I know about the allure of beautiful things. But I've learnt that no matter how much I value or love my books, when the time for downsizing comes ... they have to be gone! And if no one wants them, then they have no material value left. I have had to change a bit with the times and download books on to a tablet ... reminding me that it is not the cover and pages that have value in themselves, but rather how the book positively blesses my life; and in the case of serious or spiritual reading material, how this changes how I think and feel, and how I respond to God and relate to other people in new ways.

Even a good car, a Ford, cannot last, nor offer any spiritual fulfilment. A new car loses much of its value as soon as you drive it out of the sales-yard. Then people keep scratching it, spilling food on the seats, bringing in their muddy shoes, bashing the doors in car-parks; and then one day, when you're not looking, someone breaks in and steals it.

What are then ... "treasures in heaven"?? How would you describe them?

Treasures in heaven are: investments in people (that will never lose their value):

* acts of kindness and service – e.g. practical help for those who struggle with some particular tasks of life. Acts of kindness lead to the possibility of renewed hope or trust in people.

* gifts of mercy, compassion and forgiveness – e.g. a gift of food to a hungry person, a phone-call or visit to a lonely person, some word of encouragement to the depressed, a prayer of support for the sick, a hug for the grieving, or forgiving someone against the tide (even when they are unaware or not even sorry for the offence).

* sharing testimonies of faith (where faith has been proven effective) – for instance with the struggling or lost (for their encouragement)

* introducing someone to Jesus - so that they might have peace with God

* effort toward the undoing of injustice, oppression, poverty, violence, etc – to stand and act in solidarity with those suffering under oppression or injustice is very powerful

* neighbour care – i.e. being known as helpful, available, friendly, safe, welcoming and caring ... in your street (e.g. lending things). If we can become a good listener (including to stuff we might find foreign or difficult), others may be prepared eventually to listen to what we believe.

* growing our families – i.e. teaching, offering boundaries, loving, developing better communication, listening to one another's needs, being available

* activities toward community-building – contributing to people coming together for various causes with greater harmony, mutual caring and learning capacity e.g. community action groups

* building relationships in the church – spending time together in worship, encouragement, prayer, and study of the Word ... in the large group and in small groups, being interested in the daily challenges each one faces, and the stories of how God has been involved. The church is the 'body of Christ' - all of us being interdependent parts of the same entity. We need each other, because the necessary gifts are spread around (for the common good). We can be a 'tight body' or a 'loose body'!

In the film 'Mr. Holland's Opus', all the musician Mr. Holland wanted to do was write his great symphony. However, for financial reasons, he had to start doing something he dreaded - being a music teacher. Mr. Holland (played by Richard Dreyfuss) started out with little time for the students, because he just wanted the money to live on while he wrote his great symphony. However, there was some real intrinsic goodness in Mr. Holland, as we see the needs and talents of his young students work their way into his heart. Having become open to these young people, and bringing significant encouragement and contributions into their lives (such that they were growing enormously), Mr. Holland became aware that his primary gifting and calling was not necessarily as a composer, but as a teacher. Mr. Holland's great symphony or 'opus' was not a composition, but rather his investments in the lives of his students. Mr. Holland had found his "treasures in heaven".

George Muller wrote: "When we go to heaven, we go to the place where our treasures are, and we shall find them there". When the film credits come up for a person's life ... how many credit lists will we appear on??

What we treasure most shows where our heart is - this exposes where we are in our spiritual walk with God. The fruit reveals the health of the tree. Once we have signed up with Jesus, our true citizenship is in heaven, so that is where our investments should be made. Any investments on earth will remain on earth as clutter for others to deal with. Investments in heaven travel with us. Whatever we pursue most, what we give highest priority to, where we put our greatest energies - this inevitably shows what we care about most, and where are heart really is.

Athol Gill wrote: "Each person sets their heart on what they count as ultimately important - and this allegiance determines the direction of their life". Our own spiritual blessings derive from the investments we make into the lives of others.

Jesus lived out this notion of "treasures in heaven", and gave us "treasure" beyond compare. Through God's Holy Spirit we can be bearers of these "treasures in heaven" as investments in other people's eternal experience of God.

One of the greatest Christian leaders of the last century was John R. W. Stott, rector of All Souls Langham Place in London and a peerless preacher, Bible teacher, evangelist, author, global leader and friend to many. I knew him over many decades, but I will never forget my last visit to his bedside three weeks before he died. After an unforgettable hour and more of sharing many memories over many years, I asked him how he would like me to pray for him. Lying weakly on his back and barely able to speak, he answered in a hoarse whisper, "Pray that I will be faithful to Jesus until my last breath." Would that such a prayer be the passion of our generation too. (Os Guinness, “Impossible People”, IVP Books, 2016).