SCRIPTURE:
Matthew 28:16-17 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted.
OBSERVATION:
I love when God shows me something in His word that I’ve never seen before. The Great Commission and Jesus’ ascension did not happen in a random crowded place. It was on a specific mountain top that offered intimacy without the distractions of everyday life. Before the disciples could hear the Great Commission and see the ascension of Christ, they first had to hear and obey His instructions.
Then, there were some that really blow my mind. They see Jesus’ ministry, His death, burial, and resurrection, they hear His command to go to the mountain and actually show up. Even after all this, they still doubted.
Doubt is faith that God can’t or won’t do what He says. 2 Timothy 2:13 states, “If we are faithless, He remains faithful; He cannot deny Himself.” God will do what He says He will do regardless of our protest or doubt. The difference is that faith gives you a front row seat and the opportunity to participate in what He is doing. Doubt may allow you to be around God’s activity, but not to be part of the process.
“They worshiped Him, but some doubted.” They all drew near with their words and actions, but some still doubted in their heart. It is possible to attend church, sing the songs, hear the preached word, and even receive a personal prophecy or even a miracle or healing, and still have doubt in our hearts. If it was true of some that physically walked with Jesus, how much more is it possible that the same can be true for us today (Matthew 15:8)?
Birds rest on wires but take no part in lighting up my house. The Holy Spirit is the source of all power. The question is: are we going to be God’s power lines to send His light and power to a lost, sick, and dying world, or is our doubt causing us to be like the bird sitting so close to the power, but not being part of the process?
APPLICATION:
1. Hear God’s word through the Bible (logos) and the Holy Spirit (rhema).
2. Obey. Do what He says.
3. Repent of doubting and refuse to let it have any place in your heart and mind.
4. Get ready to see, receive, and participate in what God is doing in your world.
PRAYER:
Jesus, I love You. You are greater than anyone or anything. Thank You for today. Holy Spirit, come and identify any area of fear, doubt, or disbelief. I ask forgiveness for doubting Your character and ability. Help me to hear You word and obey Your commands. I don’t just want to be around Your activity, I want to participate in it. Transform me into a conduit of Your grace. In Your name I pray, amen.
WORSHIP: