Jesus turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.” (Matthew 16:23)
13 Then people brought little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked them. 14 Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19:13-14)
46 An argument started among the disciples as to which of them would be the greatest. 47 Jesus, knowing their thoughts, took a little child and had him stand beside him. 48 Then he said to them, “Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For it is the one who is least among you all who is the greatest.” (Luke 9:46-48)
I am sure all of you would have concluded yesterday that the Discipline of Fellowship is extremely important to Jesus. Today we will explore a very important aspect of effective fellowship – authenticity. Of course, Jesus is authenticity personified. The passages above provide examples of the level of authenticity Jesus displayed during his interactions with his disciples.
Please answer the two questions below.
Today’s Questions:
- How can we improve the level of authenticity in our fellowship with believers?
- What practical steps can you take to improve your practice of Fellowship?
March 3, 2016 at 8:37 am
Authenticity can be exposing and unfortunately my best defense is being very private and guarded. A good first step might be to trust others (one or two to start) enough to share our true self. Be there for them to share their true self with you.
I think this will allow for true fellowship. We would know each other’s true heart and share in our worship of a God.
March 3, 2016 at 11:46 am
How can we improve the level of authenticity in our fellowship with believers?
I agree with (Aunty) Bridget, in that authenticity requires a sense of vulnerability -something that does not come easily to me either! However, it is the foundation of trust and truthfulness that will help to improve the level of authenticity in our fellowship. Also, these passages provide two different ways of “promoting the truth:” 1) the firm way in which Jesus rebukes Satan, and 2) the gentle way in which he calls the children to him. I think this is a great example in how delivery of the truth can differ, but is appropriate for the situation at hand.
March 3, 2016 at 12:14 pm
I have learned to care more about what God says and less about what the world thinks.
He says I am God’s righteousness through Jesus Christ and that he loves me unconditionally. Accepting these truths has set me free, allowing me to be more me, and less a image I need to project or a fragile ego I need to protect . God’s ways and thoughts are higher than man’s ways and thoughts (see Isaiah 55:9). Instead of wishing and wanting others to be more authentic to reach out – be authentic yourself – take the high road. The standards set by Jesus are very high – as high as the heavens – but its well worth applying His teachings because you will benefit personally. Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it (Luke 11:28 NIV). Everything God asks us to do comes with a reward – isn’t that a wonderful thing!!!
For me, the first practical step to increased fellowship would be regular church attendance.
March 3, 2016 at 11:10 pm
Love is essential in all fellowship. First a love of God and Jesus, then self and thereafter your neighbor.