Luke and apostolic attitudes

(9:46-56)
Three stories that are connected by a singular them - the bad attitude of the apostles!

Story #1
The apostles were arguing about which one of them was the greatest; it tells us that Jesus "knew what they were thinking". Were they perhaps using very technical and theological arguments with each other that gave a semblance of "debate", or "mere discussion"? And yet, in their hearts, they were each competing for top spot.

There is so much danger in the current "apostolic discussions" that we need to be careful that the heart is not one of "who is the greatest". We can hide behind much rhetoric and theological debate over roles of apostles and "apostolic households", whilst in our hearts be pushing for greater influence. Interestingly, Jesus uses a child to make the point - it is the one who has least influence and least significance that is actually the greatest.

There are many big names out there in the Christian world; I really hope that they remember that Christ knows what they are thinking!

Story #2
The apostles were concerned that people were doing things for Jesus but weren't part of "our group". No surprise, then to find Paul discussing the same thing to the Corinthians who were dividing themselves into camps! A bad attitude when we realize just how much work is needed in the Kingdom.

Jesus' response is basically: you get on with what you are called to do, let others get on with what they are called to - if you are all pursuing the same goal, then don't get so tribal! How important that we keep this in mind during these days of swapping apostolic tribes.

Story #3
The apostles wanted to destroy a village because they had a different agenda to them! Quite rightly, Jesus rebuked them! For the Samaritans, they wanted Jesus to stay with them, not just stop over on His way to somewhere else. Jesus was happy to let that agenda stand and just move on, but the apostles were too quick to claim ownership of the agenda.

Some important lessons to be learned in this story:

• Jesus isn't bothered about an agenda that is different to His; He has a plan and purpose that will go on regardless.

• Apostles must submit to Jesus' agenda, not their own

• Apostles must not condemn any churches that don't connect with their agenda

• Apostles must be prepared to work with churches that have different expectations of them

• Apostles must serve the churches, not themselves

• Churches need to work with Jesus' agenda, even if it may not be exactly what they would want or expect - don't bypass the blessing just because you wanted a "longer stay".

These three stories give us an insight into the pitfalls of those who would be apostles, or in an apostolic team. The necessity of staying within the boundaries of Jesus is paramount - even those walking alongside Jesus got it so spectacularly wrong! Three attitudes of the apostles, three rebukes from Jesus!

Maybe some things ought to be remembered here:-

• Don't be self-righteous

• Don't let your plans supersede God's

• Don't think more highly of yourself than you ought

• Don't promote your own agenda or ministry

• Don't be tribal, nor make an issue of promoting the tribe

• Don't be law-maker, judge and executioner

Paul wrote (1Cor.4:4), "My conscience may be clear, but that doesn't make me innocent" - wise words to live by.