The number 12. Twelve in a dozen. Twelve jurors. Joe Namath wore #12! But twelve is also a significant number of an elite group of men formed as a unique group of ambassadors. Hand picked by their leader, using qualifications that no modern screening would verify, these twelve were picked to deliver the message of a king too the world. A dying world. And even when one defected, in a scenario that would prove deadly for this king, it was all part of the plan. But when the other eleven were empowered by Him, and the spirit, the world began to see the king's words come true.
Three days after the king's death, ten of them were locked upstairs in the same room they had had their final meeting with their king. Only one was missing. And they were scared to death, as being associated with this king had made them wanted followers, who would eventually all face a martyr's death due to allegiance to him. Ten men holed up if you would, not knowing what to do, but afraid of the possible consequences. With the toughest one already denying publicly any association with their leader. Not knowing what to do, they were afraid for their lives, and without a leader or plan, were clueless.
But rather than the ten being vilified for fear, it is the one who wasn't at the meeting who is known as an outlaw within the group. Commonly referred to, incorrectly, as the Doubter, he, rather than be holed up scared, was out on the streets doing what his leader had told him to do-be bold, in love, and share the gospel. Remember his words to follow Jesus into Jerusalem even if it meant death? Of course, I am talking about Thomas, who later would end up killed with spears in India, and where churches started by him are still in evidence today. But a doubter? Truly the other 10 were, for they were afraid for their lives-perfect love casts out all fear. And doubt causes fear. No, Thomas, was confident of what could happen, just not sure what would happen. But he had his marching orders, so march he did. And when the others shared about the appearance of Jesus, he said he wanted to see him too. I want the proof, if it's good enough for you, show me too. All the way to the three nail piercings, and the hole in his side. He wanted to see the evidence of their faith! And when he did, without touching the wounds, cried out, "my God and my savior!" For he recognized Jesus, just as the others had-but through faith, not wanting to discount stories of 10 scared men. And Jesus would tell him how others who haven't seen shall be blessed if they believe too. That's us! You and me! And isn't seeing such an encouragement to our believing?
But are you out sharing the gospel as Thomas was, or scared into hiding because of what others may say? Preachers, is the pulpit a place to share the gospel and encourage others in it, or a place to discuss social ills? Time magazine tells us there is no hell. Do you respond in truth, or would you rather quote the magazine? Do you prefer Oprah to the Word? Jesus said He came to separate the sheep from the goats-are you confronting others in love with Jesus? Stop and ask yourself-who is Jesus Christ, and is He real in your life? Are you a sheep, or a goat? And if there is no hell, why did Jesus talk about it more than heaven? Why did He die to rescue you from it? Could Time, Oprah, and Rick Bell have it wrong?
If you are not representing Him, even though saved you are in spiritual darkness. For if you deny the evidence of His light, you stop going to church. Stop reading the Word. Stop praying. And make excuses just like the goats-the unsaved. You rely more on Time than on God. But God allows us that choice, and you can hit the switch, and turn back to Jesus. Pray, and repent. Read the word, and get back into church. As the spirit moves you, tell others about Jesus. And better yet, show His love as He commanded you, then use words when necessary. Be a Thomas!
Take your light out from under a barrel, and let it show to others. Be the only Bible that some may read. But get out of your room, and into the world-not becoming part of it, but changing it one life at a time.
Woe to those of you who don't. And don't spread vicious rumors about those that do. Be willing to risk it all like Thomas, and watch as whenever you see evidence of God, you rejoice. And you recognize God-and want more of Him!
Two of twelve took a stand-one for and one against. One went and killed himself, hanging and then falling onto the ground-spilling his guts. The other, living for Christ, and spilling his guts about Him everyday. Your choice.
Jesus never sent anyone to their room. Get out in the light! Before you begin to doubt His word and ways, too.
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com