No "Shrinking Violets" Here #303

16 But the eleven disciples proceeded to Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had designated. 17 When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some were doubtful. 18 And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

The number of disciples had shrunk from twelve to eleven. Jesus had asked them to meet Him on the mountain. The thoughts going through their minds had to be greatly mixed. They may have considered that now was the time for the overthrow of the Roman government. It could be they knew something of major consequences was about to transpire. No matter what they were thinking it was obvious they were meeting with the One who had risen from the dead and was promising to leave them. Their reaction was worship and yet doubt. Is Jesus really God? Is He expecting something from them? What ever was greeting them when Jesus arrived was going to be overwhelming.

It was just that. Jesus announced that He had all authority in heaven and in earth and then spoke to the disciples with the authority that let them know He was giving them that same authority. The words from Jesus could more likely mean, “As you are going about life: MAKE DISCIPLES! They were disciples, but Jesus wanted the message passed on to others. How was that to happen? It would be accomplished as the current disciples followed Jesus’ instructions. “As you go, make disciples of all peoples on the earth. As the nations believed; baptize them. But more than that teach them everything I have taught you. Three years of following Jesus was not just to learn, but to learn in order to pass it on.

The promise of Jesus to them was simply, “I will be with you to the end of the age.” For all of their lives the person of the Holy Spirit would empower them with the authority of Jesus to make disciples much like they had become disciples. That command from Jesus has not changed. You are still called to make disciples.

_____________________Today's personal note from Dennis

Greetings from Starbucks in beautiful Tempe, AZ

I truly appreciate your prayers during this past week. It was a very tiring week. My Dad's funeral was last Wednesday. It was a beautiful service honoring him and bringing glory to His Savior Jesus Christ. It was good to see so many of Dad's friends and family. I was blessed by not only the love and support from people in Eldon, MO, but so many of you who sent emails or comfort and encouragement. (see pics of my Dad, my brother and I and the old home place (now abandoned) of my Great Grandparents on my Mom's side of the family.

It was good to get home. On the plane I was chilling and by the time I got home had a fever. I was able to hold out until Saturday. I went into the hospital on Saturday afternoon with fever and lots of pain: Cholangitis again. Got out of the hospital on Tuesday afternoon. Feeling better. I do plan on being back at my activities including preaching Sunday at FBC Intersect Service. See you there. 

The last three weeks have been a strain on me and Sandy. So appreciate you prayers. 

Blessings to all of you.  ~ DGW