Action Time

Mark 6:7 Calling the Twelve to him, he sent them out two by two and gave them authority over evil spirits.
 
HERE’S the first time Jesus anointed his disciples with his power. Jesus can keep doing his saving work among his people, and much more will be done when he empowers his disciples to go and do what he does. A key word here is sent. It means “to send someone with a special commission to represent another and to accomplish his work.” Out of this meaning comes the word apostle. When Jesus says, “Go.” you can be certain he is sending you to stand before the world to represent him.
   Jesus also gave them specific directives to complete their work. Too often we see Jesus’ teachings as suggestions or ideas for good living. But we must understand Jesus is the Commander of the LORD’s army. That means his words are your commands.
   Think of this. We may often speak of the Ten Commandments as definitive law to obey. They are not optional if we want live right with God and all people. The same is true of Jesus’ words. He is the Word of God. He instructs you to a holy life, so you will become more as God.
   Your purpose then is to inform the world God has saved you and has sent you. You can only accomplish that when we understand his words command you to action. To put your hesitations and disobedience above Jesus’ commands diverts your mission to represent Jesus to the world.
    Remember, as Jesus’ disciple you are engaged in a war. Wars require skirmishes and battles. Commander Jesus trained and equipped his disciples with the Spirit’s power and directed them to the battleground. He gave them the right strategies to win the war. This would be their lifelong mission.
   That must be our response to our Lord. Disciples “go out” and battle for the human soul. We do this through preaching, correcting, helping, teaching, giving, forgiving, serving, loving, praying and healing – and even commanding the demons to be gone. Is that something you and your church are doing? Are you a Christian soldier on active duty for your Commander?
   A disciple lives in Jesus’ discipline. Be willing to go where he commands you to go. Understand what he wants you to do and know how to do what he says. Trust his authority on your life to do so.  
   Do you feel unqualified? Jesus commanded 12 “newcomers” to take his authority into Judea to teach and heal. He required no prior experience, only love for the Lord and others.