Life Lessons Jesus taught the Disciples (Part I)

Scripture ( Mark 1:22 NKJ) “And they were astonished at His teaching, for He taught as one having authority… (Matt. 28:18b NKJ) … “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.

Jesus is Savior, friend, teacher, and mentor who walked with His disciples for three years, instructing them in all Kingdom agendas. During that time, the disciples saw Him face every situation imaginable.  (1.)” They saw Him consistently anchor Himself in God’s presence through prayer. (2.) They watched as He avoided the spotlight and praises of crowds (3.) He taught them that God is the focal point in ministry, and He refused to give in to the temptations of self ambitions or self-promotion.” (beliefnet.com) This Jesus led and served by example.

Jesus seizes every human error as an opportunity for teaching moments, to reveal truths about the Kingdom of God He found it necessary to correct the disciples’ thinking.

They confused the earthly kingdom event with heavenly agendas. The disciples are carried away with prominence, position, and power. Jesus did not condemn them, yet He did challenge them. Therefore Jesus teaches them that greatness in the Kingdom of God is possible by becoming humble.,Jesus boldly says  (Matt. 18:3), “ Truly, I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” He constantly reminded them that His Kingdom is spiritual and does not operate like that of the world. The lesson here is that true greatness comes through humility and childlike faith that trusts God.

Jesus again teaches that violence is not the answer to solve conflicts. According to the Holy Bible (Luke 9:55), “But he turned and rebuked them and said, You do not know what kind of spirit you are of; for the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them.” Jesus taught that the Kingdom of God does not respond in earthly violence but with the grace of God (beliefnet.com).  For example, when Jesus faces an arrest (Mark 14:46), the sword is drawn in violence against the guards. Jesus teaches to put away the sword steel and instead take up the sword of the spirit.

Jesus also taught the disciples how important it is to choose words carefully. Words are powerful. (Matt. 12:36), “But I tell you that everyone will give an account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken.” Take heed from scripture. When you speak, you reveal what’s deep inside-whether good or evil.  It is crucial that you watch what you say. God records our words, and we will have to account for every careless one. (Matt. 12:37 Tony Evans-CSB), “For by your words, you will be acquitted, and by your words, you will be condemned.”Today I am witnessing political elections/debates, whereas people get caught up using words that could cause voters to turn against them. Even on the world’s scene, words are powerful. “Jesus teaches us to choose our words wisely because they will either be advancing the Kingdom of God or darkness” (beliefnet.com).

Prayer: Lord, thank you for Your faithfulness towards me. I can do nothing without You. Lord, You are my example. You only should I imitate. In the name of Jesus. Amen

(by Novella D. Carpenter)