PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Luke 9:51-56
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“Do you want us to call fire down from heaven to destroy them?” (Luke 9:54)
James and John were known as the sons of thunder (Mark 3:17).
They had a thirst for power… and for using it (Mark 10:35f).
They were Jesus followers but they didn’t know the Spirit of Jesus.
Sadly through history the church has been a lot like James and John.
When it came into power, it used power to crush their opponents.
This is not unique to the church, it is seen in all humans.
But one would think that being with Jesus would change that.
In fact, this is what should happen, and the whole purpose of Jesus.
Our hearts should be on fire, but not the fire of power, greed or lust.
Jesus didn’t come to strike down enemies but to crush the enemy in us.
Our own drive for self, greed, power, revenge etc must die.
Jesus challenges us to look at our own impulses and desires.
Does my heart reflect the Jesus Way – love, joy, peace, grace, mercy?
Am I led more by greed or generosity, lust or love, power or patience?
PRAYER
Lord, we prefer to use power to win than to bless, serve and heal. But this is not your way. Use you fire to purge my own heart, not to burn others.
“Lord, do you want us to call fire down from heaven to destroy them[a]?” Jesus did not punish this village when they rejected his coming. All we know is that this village did not want Jesus to go to Jerusalem. Maybe they knew Jesus and knew what could happen to him there. Jesus knew their motives and He did not seek to punish – rather He diverted and avoided a conflict and instead went to a place that received Him. That is the same for each of us – receive Jesus – make Him welcome. Help others to find Him as well -pray that the HS will open their hearts as well!
Jesus had the plan. The disciples followed and made preparations but those preparations were not welcomed by the people.. He went to another village where He was accepted. They were not destroyed as the disciples wanted but given time. What is my reaction to those who do not welcome Jesus when we share the gospel with them? Do I show the love of Christ or turn my back on them. The love of Christ does miracles and I need to be that instrument of peace show the way. The Spirit does the increase, not I. I just need to share His love.
Love, love, love, love,
the gospel in a word is love,
Love thy neighbor as thy brother,
love, love, love.
Peace, peace, peace, peace,
the gospel in a word is peace,
Peace that passes understanding,
peace, peace, peace.
Joy, joy, joy, joy,
the gospel in a word is joy,
Joy that fills to overflowing,
joy, joy, joy.
Christ, Christ, Christ, Christ,
the gospel in a word is Christ,
Love Him, serve Him, and adore Him,
Christ, Christ, Christ.