Rebekah Wilson 0:07
Welcome to Elmhurst CRC’s daily dose of the Word of God. Today is Tuesday, May 16th and this is Rebekah Wilson. This week we’re journeying with Jesus from the tomb and preparing for Missions Sunday. I’ll be reading Matthew 28, verses 16 and 17 in the preparation.
Rebekah Wilson 0:25
Then the eleven disciples left for Galilee, going to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshipped him, but some of them still doubted
Rebekah Wilson 0:36
Wait a second, did I read that right? When they saw Jesus they worshipped him, but some still doubted Him? What?! So often when we read the account of the Great Commission, the verses directly following this passage (verses 18-20), we think of evangelism, discipleship, sharing the good news and growing in our faith. And there’s so much pressure! “I have to convince every one I meet that Jesus is Lord.” So, I love Matthew’s honest account here that when the 11 disciples were face to face with the risen Jesus, they burst out in worship - but some still struggled with doubt and had questions. It reminds me so much of the father in Mark 9, who struggled with doubt and pleaded with Jesus, “Help me with my unbelief!”
Rebekah Wilson 1:25
If you’re a Christ follower and even have the smallest inclination to tell others about Jesus, let’s all take heart from this passage. I know for myself that I have those friends who are staunch atheists, or super brainy and intellectual, or some that have a very scientific mind and I think to myself, "how can I convince them that Jesus is Lord?" When I read this account of the very men who had walked with Jesus doubting him, I’m reminded that the revelation of Jesus’ true identify is a work of the Holy Spirit. Nothing I say or do will convince anyone of anything. The Holy Spirit is the one who moves in people’s hearts and transforms their thinking. He transformed all 11 of these men (the worshippers and the doubter) to go to live courageous lives for their Savior; Some of them even giving their lives for him. So how does knowing that some of the disciples had doubts give you hope in your faith? Where is God calling you to be stretched in your trust in him?
Rebekah Wilson 2:38
Let’s pray. Abba Father, we bend our knee in worship of you, the creator and sustainer of life. Thank you for partnering with us in ministry, despite our failings and doubts. We confess we can be intimidated and anxious about spreading your good news for fear of not having the right answers or arguments. Help us to rest in your truth and the work of the Holy Spirit. Help us to be bold witnesses of your love and grace. Amen.