One day Jesus called together his twelve disciples and gave them power and authority to cast out all demons and to heal all diseases. Then he sent them out to tell everyone about the Kingdom of God and to heal the sick. [Luke 9.1-2]
It was bound to happen. All the teaching, instruction and demonstration by Jesus would necessarily require His disciples to eventually do the same. And, that day came and is documented in the Gospels.
It is not ironic that, at the end of His time on earth, Jesus gave a similar final commission:
Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” [Matthew 28.18-20]
There are two other significant implications by Jesus Himself that His life was the example to follow for ministry:
“I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father. [John 14.12]
Just as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world. [John 17.18]
Whatever the Christian religion is today, if its ministry and members do not mirror Jesus' example, then something is awry - something is terribly wrong.
Here's a bold statement: The world doesn't need Christianity - it needs Christ. In today's reality of Christianity, there is a difference. In other words, if Christianity is not 100% about Jesus the Messiah as portrayed in the Bible, then it will never effectively execute God's will in and upon the world.
All the programs and doctrines of Christianity are merely distractions if its proponents do not mirror Christ.
Father, forgive me for pursuing religion - even Christianity - at the expense of not pursuing Christ.
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