Introduction
In Mark 6:7-13, Jesus sends out His disciples for the first time, marking a significant moment in their journey of faith. This passage offers profound insights into what it means to be a disciple of Jesus. As followers of Christ, we are called to live lives of submission, reliance on God's provision, and participation in gospel multiplication. Let's explore these themes and understand how they apply to our lives today.
Submission to Christ's Authority
What Does It Mean to Submit to Jesus?
Being a disciple of Jesus starts with recognizing and submitting to His authority. The disciples left their professions and followed Jesus, demonstrating their submission to His call. Submission and obedience are not popular concepts, but they are essential for a disciple. The word "authority" comes from "author," and as the author of all creation, God has the ultimate authority.
Why Is Submission Important?
Submission to Jesus is not just about following rules; it's about recognizing His love and sacrifice for us. Sin is essentially a disregard for God's authority, and it was our sin that necessitated Jesus' sacrifice. When we understand the weight of our sin and the cost of our salvation, our natural response should be one of affection and obedience to Jesus.
Reliance on God's Provision
How Do We Depend on God?
Jesus instructed His disciples to take nothing for their journey except a staff, teaching them to rely on God's provision. This reliance is not just about material needs but also about trusting God to provide through His people. The story of the woman in the flood who refused help illustrates how God often provides through others.
What Is the Difference Between Provision and Blessing?
It's crucial to distinguish between God's provision and His blessings. Provision is about meeting our needs, while blessings are often excesses that can sometimes distract us from our dependence on God. In our culture, we often confuse wants with needs, but true reliance on God means trusting Him for our daily bread and focusing on heavenly treasures rather than earthly ones.
Participation in Gospel Multiplication
What Is Gospel Multiplication?
Being a disciple of Jesus involves participating in the multiplication of the gospel. Jesus sent His disciples out two by two to proclaim the message of repentance. This sending out is a crucial part of discipleship, as it prepares us to continue Jesus' work.
How Do We Participate in Gospel Multiplication?
We are called to share the gospel and make disciples. This involves being sent into our communities, workplaces, and families to live out and share the message of Jesus. Success in this mission is not measured by immediate results but by our faithfulness in obeying God's call.
Life Application
How Can We Apply These Lessons This Week?
Reflect on Submission: Consider areas in your life where you struggle to submit to Jesus' authority. Ask yourself, "Have I truly recognized the weight of my sin and the cost of my salvation?"
Depend on God's Provision: Identify ways you can rely more on God's provision rather than your own resources. Reflect on the difference between your needs and wants.
Engage in Gospel Multiplication: Think about who you are called to reach with the gospel. How can you be more intentional in sharing your faith and making disciples?
Questions to Ponder
Am I living in full submission to Jesus' authority in every area of my life?
Do I trust God to provide for my needs, or am I relying on my own resources?
How can I participate in the multiplication of the gospel in my community?
Conclusion
Being a disciple of Jesus is a journey of submission, reliance, and participation in His mission. As we reflect on these themes, let's challenge ourselves to live out our faith more fully this week. May we submit to Jesus' authority, rely on His provision, and actively participate in the multiplication of the gospel.
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