"We shall individually be held responsible for doing one jot less than we have ability to do...But when we give ourselves wholly to God, and in our work follow His directions, He makes Himself responsible for its accomplishment. He would not have us conjecture as to the success of our honest endeavors. Not once should we even think of failure. We are to cooperate with One who knows no failure." ~Messages to Young People, p. 309

Friday, June 3, 2011

Blogging Through The Gospels: Luke 9, Part 2

Today we get to finish up Luke 9, covering verses 28-62. In this part of Luke 9, there is Jesus' transfiguration, Jesus healing a boy with an evil spirit, more arguing among the disciples, what the cost is to follow Jesus, and Samaritan opposition. Wow!

Scripture:

"While everyone was marveling at all that Jesus did, he said to his disciples, "Listen carefully to what I am about to tell you: The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of men." But they did not understand what this meant. It was hidden from them, so that they did not grasp it, and they were afraid to ask him about it." ~Luke 9:43-45

Observation:

When I'd read this story before, I always thought that the disciples were just brainless, distracted, and not understanding how Jesus must be killed. But now these verses are starting to change my mind. Let's look at verse 45 once again:

"It was hidden from them, so that they did not grasp it, and they were afraid to ask him about it."

I always just thought that it was the disciples fault for not understanding. But perhaps....it wasn't totally their fault? I think it's interesting the reasoning here. The ideas behind Jesus' words were hidden from the disciples, so they couldn't understand it. From the last part of the verse, it seems like God's idea was for the disciples to question Jesus more on the subject. But they didn't.

Application:

How many times is it when I-or you-read a passage of Scripture, but then don't understand it? What do we do then? Just heave a sigh, say "Oh well", and move on? While sometimes that may be a good course of action, I really believe that we need to understand the Bible.

First, pray that God will open your eyes to what a Scripture passage means. Often God will help you in a big way right there! If want some more help, compare Scripture with Scripture! Those little side references are wonderful. If that doesn't satisfy you, go to a trusted friend, family member, or pastor that can explain what that passage means.

Endeavor to understand as much as you can!

Prayer:

Dear God, when I read your Holy Word, please help me to understand it, and to learn what you would want me to learn. Amen.


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P.S.--To learn more about this blogging-through-the-gospels program, or if YOU would like to join yourself (you're more than welcome-jump right in!!) go to: http://www.momstoolbox.com/

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