Today’s scripture: Luke 9:49-50 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me in this passage? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (Robert Ferguson):
The disciples had been arguing amongst themselves as to who among them would be the greatest. Though the disciples had been with Jesus for sometime they were still spiritually immature. They did and said things that often called for correction from Christ.
Here we find John reminding Jesus of just how loyal and protective the disciples had been of the power of the Gospel; even when Jesus was not around. John, perhaps the most spiritually sensitive disciple, forbade the man who cast out devils. This man did not attend Jesus’ meetings and he was not part of the privileged inner circle. The disciples had done something they thought would merit the Lord’s praise, and, perhaps, some great position in His kingdom. They believed that keeping personal company with the Lord made them somehow better than others. They were qualified to “forbid” those who weren’t so privileged.
I am always amazed when I read stories about the disciples and how they interacted with Jesus. So often we hold these men up with such high regard. They were chosen by Jesus and they had the opportunity to walk and live with Jesus. Surely we should expect that they understood the humility of serving God.
Jesus is the real miracle of anyone’s ability to cast out demons or heal the sick. Individuals may say wondrous words but without proclaiming the name of Jesus, their words are useless.
Perhaps John was threatened by this “outsider” performing these works. Jesus and the disciples were John’s church and family. Studying, following, and praying with Jesus everyday must surely bring some personal benefit? Time and time again we see that, just like us, sometimes the disciples were on the wrong track.
Jesus did not view the God-given power to cast out demons, pray for others, or heal the sick in his name as something to be protected or kept from others. None of us holds the power to save the lost, heal the sick, or forgive sin. It is only through Jesus Christ our Lord that God will cast out demons.
I find that there is a great tendency in many of us to look differently at others who don’t worship exactly as we do and at other Christians who do not share our doctrine. I might suggest that many go so far as to look on those who are different with distrust, suspicion, or disdain.
I must admit that at least one time in my life I have prayed, “Lord, make them see it my way, which I know to be the right way,” because they are not a part of us! What a dangerous road to travel. What happens when we, who are the preachers of tolerance, become intolerant? As Christians we understand that Jesus was the champion for the outcast, but sometimes it seems as though his followers are the very ones who are quick to turn up their noses to those who are different.
There is a real danger for those proclaiming to be on the road to life of becoming narrow-minded and exclusive towards others. Our brothers and sisters of varying Christian beliefs who are born of the same Spirit of God, must be embraced by all of us. What matters most is Christ.
The apostles wanted to forbid the man. Jesus said to forbid him not. How often are we at odds with Jesus in the way we go about our ministries and live our lives? There is no power in denominations, religious organizations, or disciplines to cast out devils. It is only in and by the name of Jesus. Do not forbid them. He that is not against us is for us.
Thought for the day: Who have I dismissed or looked down on because they’re not in my religious “clique”?
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.