Keeping It Simple

John 21:23 - So the rumor spread among the community of believers that this disciple wouldn't die.  But that isn't what Jesus said at all.  He only said, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?"

How often does the message of the Gospel get misunderstood, or misrepresented, because of false assumptions by the community of believers?  Yes, Jesus often spoke in parables, but that was for a purpose.  For those who were His committed followers, He kept it simple.  But those listening that weren't as committed as they thought, or claimed to be, were confused and made false assumptions.

Speaking in parables was Jesus' way of weeding out those who were just casual believers.  He said that those were listening to His teaching would understand more, and have an abundance of knowledge (Matthew 13:12).

Does God use parables when He speaks to us now?  That's a great question.  In a way I think He does.  He will put people, and situations, in front of us now that are there for a reason.  Typically to help guide us through a difficult time, and to help build up the strength of our faith for what He has planned for us.  At the time, we often don't realize that it was God working in our lives unless, or until, we take the time to truly communicate with Him.

God is always at work around us.  If we aren't seeking that deeply intimate and personal love relationship with Him, which is what He wants, we tend to not see it as His work.  I think that's why a lot of people have issues with faith.  They think, "I did this by my own strength and wisdom."  But if it's not what God wants, it won't last.  How many business fail every day?  I would be willing to wager that most of those businesses were not built on a foundation with Christ in the center.  That's not to say that businesses that are built on that foundation won't fail.  But when they do, it is because God has something better for them.  And when they believe that God is working in and through them, and they respond with confident faith in Him, He is willing and ready to bless them abundantly.

The community of believers that John referred to here, weren't being quick to listen and slow to speak (James 1:19).  Because of that, they didn't understand.  Jesus was keeping it simple so that those who were truly committed to Him would understand.  We help ourselves when we listen more than we speak.  After all, we have two ears and one mouth for a reason.

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word.  Thank You for giving us the instructions that we need to live a life that gives You honor, praise, and glory in all we do.  We start that by being committed to a deep and intimate love relationship with You.  When we have that, we understand You more, and have an abundance of knowledge that can be shared with others, and serves to bless them and us.  I pray for those that are speaking more than they are listening, and aren't understanding because of it.  My prayer is that they will slow down, and stop trying to assume they know what You are saying to them.  I pray that they will gain more knowledge so they can stop assuming, and start knowing.  Through You, all is possible.  In Jesus' name, Amen!



God Bless!!!