 |
| Photo of the Sea of Galilee by: Hendrik Sijens |
Jesus’ three disciples, Peter, James, and John, were
privileged to see many things that others didn’t get to experience:
- The transfiguration of Jesus (Matthew 17:1-8; Mark 9:1-9; Luke 9:28-35)
- The raising from the dead of Jairus’ daughter (Mark 5:37; Luke 8:51)
- A discourse by Jesus about the end times (with Andrew, Peter’s brother; Mark 13:3)
- The garden of Gethsemane on the Mount of Olives, when Jesus prayed before His betrayal and crucifixion (Mark 14:32-42)
I wonder why Peter, James, and John were singled out. I
think we have a hint in the experiences themselves. Think about them and what
the disciples learned from them:
- The transfiguration—visual proof of Jesus’ deity and the resurrection of the dead (in Elijah and Moses). They heard the voice of God saying, “This is my beloved Son.” (It’s the same message they heard from God’s voice at Jesus’ baptism.)
- The raising of Jairus’ daughter—visual evidence that Jesus has power over death
- Personal teaching about the end times--what they would be teaching others
- Witnesses of Jesus in Gethsemane--understanding later that Jesus knew He would offer Himself for sin
After Jesus rose from the dead and ascended into heaven, Peter,
James, and John become leaders in the early church. Peter is the spokesman
preacher throughout Acts. He also seems to have had some authority in the
church, because it is he who questions both Ananias and Sapphira. James is the
second Christian martyr. Herod Agrippa killed him, because Herod thought the
Jews would approve. Peter goes on to lead the church, preach, and begin gospel
outreach to the gentiles.
It’s interesting how God prepares people for leadership.
Peter, James, and John had the perfect education: Jesus—God in the
flesh—revealing Himself in power and glory to them, giving them a front row
seat to His teaching and ministry, and preparing them (and us) for the end
times. They didn’t do too well at the very end of Jesus’ time with them, but
they were there, in Gethsemane, when Jesus sweat drops of blood.
Later, they knew
what they had seen, heard, and experienced. They could testify boldly—unto death—of the truth of Christ crucified, buried, and risen again. They could
tell about the transfiguration and the raising of Jairus’ daughter from the
dead. They could share what they knew about the end times. They had seen and
heard.
I believe God let them have those private privileges so
that these three men would be strong. Think of James. Eleven years after
Stephen was martyred, he gave his life for Christ. Peter and John: Now when they saw
the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and
ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had
been with Jesus (Acts 4:13). God used
these uneducated fishermen to change the world! The people marveled! They could
see Jesus in them.
How did the other disciples feel about Peter, James, and
John? The Bible doesn’t tell us, except that it looks like they all stuck
together until after Pentecost. If they were jealous, it didn’t damage their
friendship. And after Jesus ascended into heaven, they were all together.
Some practical applications from Jesus’ inner circle:
- Take Peter, James and John’s privileges as an encouragement. You, too, will see God do great things. (And, you’re not perfect, either.)
- Don’t be jealous when others are singled out for special privileges. Jesus was always fair. His decisions were perfect, yet He picked three disciples as His inner circle. God is still fair and wise.
- Remember that we serve the same great God that these men saw. He can heal the sick, raise the dead, talk with Elijah and Moses, and is still the Best Teacher. Appreciate God’s greatness!
- Remember that God can use people who failed Him. Peter slept when Jesus prayed in Gethsemane and denied him not too long afterwards, yet he was the principal preacher in Jerusalem in the beginning of the church. God can use you, too, even though you messed up in the past.
- The Lord has chosen people—normal, simple people—to change the world. He can use you, if you’re willing to be used.
God bless!
No comments:
Post a Comment
Please share your thoughts.