Scripture:
Matthew 10:24
“A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master. 25 It is enough for the disciple to be like his teacher, and the servant like his master. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more will they malign those of his household.
Observation:
As Jesus prepares to send his disciples out two by two to do ministry he gives them a “locker room” talk. He is giving them strategy and telling them what to expect from the enemy. These verses are key. In them he reminds the disciples that they will face persecution and problems. Why? Because people treated Jesus that way. If they hated Jesus and questioned His motives, they will do the same. If they rejected His teaching and closed their homes to Him, they would do the same to the disciples.
Application:
This is a constant theme in the ministry of Jesus. Promises of issues, problems and persecutions. Reminders from Jesus that they did the same to Him. These reminders are given so the disciples stay alert. In this passage he even goes on to say that these pressures and persecution will happen within their own homes. The enemy wants nothing greater than to distract and disrupt the ministry of the gospel. The disciples, armed with the authority to preach, heal and cast out demons, are reminded that they will come against a lack of faith and resistant hearts.
A few things…
-When am I gonna get it? There is nothing like being sucker punched when you are least expecting it. Jesus says, be ready! They will hit you and “they” is sometimes who you least expect. (Be prepared)
-Its not personal. The truth is they hated Jesus and He literally did nothing wrong. He was accused of being a messenger of satan. If they did this to Jesus, of course people will do this to me. (Don’t take it personally)
-I am not above the teacher. This is not only a reminder of what I will face but a reminder of what I am to do… Follow Jesus! As Jesus gives instruction for their journey, it is literally a word for word description of His own ministry. Every detail, exactly as He had done ministry. Jesus isn’t calling the disciples, nor me, to do anything He didn’t already model and exemplify. (Model my life/ministry after Jesus)
Prayer:
I don’t know why I still get surprised Lord. As if I am immune to the attacks, the pressures and the problems. Father give me strength to turn the other cheek and to not lose who you have called me to be and what you have called me to do. Give me favor today in the lives of those I have either lost it or have never had it. Help me love and lead well today.