Lame Disciples

Text: Luke 9:37-45 Theme: Jesus had already given his disciples power, yet they failed to utilize them. Key verses: “A man in the crowd called out, ‘Teacher, I beg you to look at my son, for he is my only child. A spirit seizes him and he suddenly screams…I begged your disciples to drive it out, but they could not.’ ‘O unbelieving and perverse generation,’ Jesus replied, ‘how long shall I stay with you and put up with you?’ (v. 38-41) “…he said to his disciples, ‘Listen carefully to what I am about to tell you: The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of men.’ But they did not understand what this meant. It was hidden from them, so that they did not grasp it, and they were afraid to ask him about it.” (v. 43-45) What God said to me: Dwayne, it could be interpreted here that Jesus was refering to the people in the crowd when he called them perverse and unbelieving. But is it reasonable that Jesus would be angered by a father’s desparate plea for his ailing child? No, it is more likely that Jesus was frustrated by his own disciples and their lack of faith and ability to do what he had called them to do. Why wouldn’t he be bothered and angered by this report from a non-follower? Those who don’t know Christ look to those who do know him for help. They expect Jesus’ followers to properly represent to them who Jesus is. This father had heard that Jesus could heal the sick and cast out demons. Surely, then, his disciples could as well? Perhaps he had also heard that Jesus had given them power to do so. And certainly Jesus had every reason to expect his disciples to do what they had been empowered to do. That was their job and their responsibility now. Yet, when the opportunity afforded them, they were lame ducks. Dwayne, don’t be a lame duck. What I said to God: Thank You, Father, for reminding me of the power and privileges You have given me and Your followers. I yeild to You today. Help me to diliberately look for opportunities to minister to others and share Your witness with them. Help me not shrink from my responsibilities. Since You have placed Your Spirit and Your power inside me, I have no excuse. Phil. 4:13!