13:9
The disciples had been focusing on what would happen to the temple and the nation, and Jesus had told them, in general terms, what would happen to the nations. Now Jesus turns the attention to the disciples themselves, and the outlook was not easy. They would be called before all manner of authorities: religious authorities and civic rulers. They would be beaten, but there would also be a purpose. They would be witnesses for Jesus, witnesses that Jesus is Lord. Both religious and civic rulers need to know that Jesus is Lord. This instruction was delivered to the apostles, but it can be applied to all believers. We are witnesses to the world, but that is a world that is in rebellion against God.
13:10
“And the gospel must first be preached ...” Before the end comes the gospel must be preached to all nations. God’s promise to Abraham was that all nations would be blessed through him. God’s plan is a global plan. We need to grasp the fullness of God’s purposes, for we so easily focus on just a small aspect of it, and then become blind to the bigger picture.
13:11
The prophets of the Old Testament frequently spoke to the leaders of the nation, telling them God’s ways, and His judgement upon the way they were living and leading the nation. The disciples would have the same role. There was a purpose in them being hauled before councils and rulers, so that they could testify to them. This is why they had not to worry beforehand about what they would say. For the Holy Spirit, not men, was in control. It is He who would lead them to be arrested, and then He would give them the words to say. For God was speaking to those in power. We need to realise the extent to which God is in control.
No comments:
Post a Comment