Scripture
Vs 1 And after six days Jesus took with him Peter and James, and John his brother, and led them up a high mountain by themselves.
Vs 6 When the disciples heard this, they fell on their faces and were terrified.
Vs 7 But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Rise, and have no fear.”
Vs 13 Then the disciples understood that he was speaking to them of John the Baptist.
Vs 19 Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, “Why could we not cast it out?”
VS 20 He said to them, “Because of your little faith.
Observation
Jesus is having a unique moment with Peter, James, & John.
He takes them separately to see Jesus in a transfigured state and with ancient heroes of the faith and even to hear the voice of the Father speak directly to Jesus.
They were terrified, but Jesus came near to them, touched them, and encouraged them to not be afraid.
As they journeyed back, Jesus taught them again and gave them understanding.
Even after this experience, the disciples quickly showed incompetence and lack of faith.
Application
Jesus gives a unique leadership lesson here
He doesn’t necessarily treat everyone the same
Jesus takes a few to intentionally pull aside for a unique experience
And during this frightening experience He encourages them to not be afraid of what He has led them into.
And after the experience, He helps them understand what they have just gone through.
So … a few necessities to lead the way Jesus did here …
With Intention
With Encouragement (literally to “put courage into”)
With Understanding
I must be intentional, and encouraging, and understanding.
And yet, even after that … those I’ve led may still fail.
(And, of course, I will.)
And I may still get frustrated … even Jesus did!
But I now have the Holy Spirit to do these regularly.
I can’t stay in a special space the way Peter wanted to on the mountain top.
I must move with the Holy Spirit, knowing He will …
Lead me … intentionally.
Encourage me … regularly.
And grant me understating.
May I now rely on the Holy Spirit’s consistent and constant presence …
Not a unique and special circumstance.
Prayer
Thank You, again, Father, for your Word
Help me, Spirit, keep confidence in You
And follow You
Wherever You lead me
In Jesus name,
Amen