Jesus’ disciples were a varied group about which we know not much. Among them was a tax collector, a zealot, fishermen, and a thief. They all had different backgrounds, upbringing, temperaments, and status in the community.
The majority of the disciples were quiet and unassuming but Peter was the opposite, belligerent and demanding. John was loved and demonstrated his love. Matthew was wealthy. Thomas was a skeptic looking for proof. Simon was the fundamentalist zealot. And Judas, not Iscariot, unknown except for the one question he asked. I can imagine him asking it while sitting among his companions and listening to their arguments and questions.
‘Why us Lord?’ John 14:22(KJV) Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world?
There is more than curiosity in that question. It sounds like he's seeking affirmation that they were better than the other available choices. There is a certain amount of pride at being one of the chosen. Their pride at being with Jesus manifested when they saw an unknown preaching. Who was this upstart usurping our role? But Jesus said if he preaches Me leave him alone no matter how he upsets us and our party. Luke.9:49-50
Finally we have Judas Iscariot, the follower who had seen the miracles, but still could not place his faith in Jesus. His chief concern was himself. A thief and miser yet Jesus called him as one of the twelve.
They argued amongst themselves about being the greatest. They disputed the words of Jesus. They second guessed themselves.
Yet, with all these differences they would one day go into the world and establish the Christian church which reached the four corners of the earth. It would take on various forms but it would endure.
The church today is a varied group of denominations. Some belligerent, some loving, some wealthy, some skeptical, some fundamentalist, some self-serving, most unassuming. The church in its various forms seems to be asking as Judas, not Iscariot, “Why us, Lord?” A pride in believing they are special. It's a pride that leads to unending strife. The arguments range from theology to liturgy, to morals, from liberalism to fundamentalism. Some of these arguments have turned into bloody wars. Each doing their utmost to prove how correct and superior they are. They keep asking the question ‘Who is the greatest? Can I sit at your right hand? Did you really say that? Don't consider these other fellows, they are all wrong.’
The church is making the same mistake that the disciples made. Looking at each other rather than the Shepherd they are all following. All follow Jesus yet each has their own image of His footprints.
We may not agree with each other but if Jesus is being preached that should be enough.
Luke 9:49(KJV) And John answered and said, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name; and we forbad him, because he followeth not with us.
Luke 9:50 And Jesus said unto him, Forbid [him] not: for he that is not against us is for us.
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