Just Zap 'Em?

When we see people reject our Lord it may hurt us deeply. We love the Lord. Our desire is for all to love Him and exalt Him in their life. What a different world it would be if Jesus was recognized by all as Lord of lords and King of kings. What a joyful atmosphere it would be to live among crowds who all shared a deep appreciation for the great hope Jesus has made possible. Nevertheless, there are right ways and wrong ways to react to those who will not accept Jesus as Lord.

Note the reaction of James and John when they witnessed the rejection of Jesus as they passed through a village of the Samaritans.
“(53) But the people did not receive him, because his face was set toward Jerusalem. (54) And when his disciples James and John saw it, they said, “Lord, DO YOU WANT US TO TELL FIRE TO COME DOWN FROM HEAVEN AND CONSUME THEM?” (55) But he turned and rebuked them. (56) And they went on to another village.” ( Luke 9:53-56 ESV)

“Enough is enough! I’m gonna take care of this right now!” “I’m gonna deal with you people once and for all!” There are situations in life where such reactions may not be surprising. And before we jump all over James and John for their statement we should humbly acknowledge how such a reaction may be far too familiar to even us. Perhaps this was a character trait that brought about their being called “sons of thunder.” ( Mark 3:17) Certainly Jesus could have brought swift punishment on those who refused to accept Him in the truth of His coming. However, Jesus had come to save rather than destroy. Instead of a blast from above Jesus provided a glimpse of the refreshing PATIENCE OF GOD Who longs not for the lost to perish, but to come to repentance. ( 2 Peter 3:9) Such PATIENCE should not be equated with acceptance or condonement. PATIENCE is simply the gracious extension of another opportunity with the hope it will be accepted.

We may feel the challenge of evil and good existing in this world side by side, but in the parable of the weeds (or tares) Jesus declared that a final time of separation will come. ( Matthew 13:24-30 & 36-43) Though we may sometimes not see it, all things are still under the control of God. He has a plan and each day in this realm is an opportunity He provides for repentance and rightful acknowledgment of His majestic sovereignty.

We have a purpose for living in this realm. That purpose is to impact those around us in positive God glorifying ways as we faithfully live out the truth of God in our lives. Yes, we must distinguish right from wrong and good from evil. (note Hebrews 5:14) Contrary to what some in our society might try to declare there is such a distinction. However, that does not mean we hate and kill as if it were our right to exercise final judgment. In our Lord’s parable of the weeds He stated that separating would be done by the angels at the end of the age. ( Matthew 13:39) Our role is to PATIENTLY love, pray for, and try to teach those who still need to repent as we live lives that exemplify the wisdom of God.

Like Jesus, we might see the need to move on to others. Perhaps another Christian will come along and pick up where our example and teaching left off. In the end, however, God will deal with it all. For now our focus needs to be on exercising the PATIENCE of God as we continue to reach out to those around us with the eternal hope God has to offer in Christ Jesus.

Have a great day DOING OUR PART KNOWING GOD WILL DO HIS!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Judging