8:17
Jesus was aware of what the disciples were saying and thinking, and then pointed out the error in their thinking. Their hearts were hardened and they could not perceive or understand. Romans 12:1,2 tells us that we need to be transformed by the renewal of our minds. We need to appreciate that our thinking needs to be changed, we see things wrong, we focus on the less important things. Part of the reason for this is that we take a man-centred approach. The disciples thought that daily provision was all up to them, so their failure to bring more than one loaf of bread was a serious error. We so often do the same. We all make mistakes, and it is not that mistakes do not matter, but because we think that ultimately it is down to us, that we are in control, we make far more of the mistake than it is due. But ultimately it is God who provides, and while we have responsibilities in practical things, and certainly are not meant to ignore them, living in obedience to God and trusting in Him is far more important. Seek first the kingdom of God, and the kingdom of God is not a matter of food and drink.
8:18-21
Jesus then tries to knock some sense into them. What had they just witnessed directly? An apparent lack of bread was not an insurmountable problem. Twice they had taken part in thousands of people being fed from a few loaves and fishes, one of these incidents just before they set out in the boat. Faith is often painted as believing things that there is no evidence for, and this view is promoted by atheists and some “faith” teachers. And there are times when faith will involve seemingly ridiculous things, but at other times faith is seeing the blindingly obvious! The mind focused on the flesh can never see the truth, the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace (Rom 8:6).
No comments:
Post a Comment