Doing
Matthew 21:6 The
disciples went and did as Jesus had instructed them.
THIS is one small sentence in the large, unfolding drama of
Jesus’ last week on earth. But what would have happened if the disciples had said,
“No.” to Jesus’ instructions? Would history have changed? Would Jesus have been
unable to ride into Jerusalem in the sign that Zechariah had prophesied (Zech
9:9)?
Certainly God is
sovereign over all circumstances. He had formed these disciples to act
specifically to obey His orders, so prophecy would be fulfilled. Thus, my
question can be answered, “The disciples had to obey to fulfill God’s plan.”
Yes, they had no choice that day. God’s will was to work through those men to
accomplish this “small” task as part of His eternal plan of salvation.
What, then, does
this say to us who call ourselves disciples? Are we required in God’s will to
do what Jesus instructs us? The short answer is: Yes, we are. But unlike the
disciples who really had no choice that day at Bethphage, God does generally allow
us to say, “Yes.” or “No.”
Yes, God is
sovereign to accomplish His will. And He will do so with or without us. But if
we want to truly live into our calling, we must do as He commands.
Neglecting Jesus’ commands,
our lives as “Christians” will be without foundation. “But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is
like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the
torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete.”
(Luke 6:49)
I know. You think
you can say, “I’m Jesus’ disciple.” and then tell Him, “Later.” or “No.” But
the truth is you can’t.
LIFE Link: There’s only one answer.
No comments:
Post a Comment