Matthew 28:16-17

Matthew 28:16-17

And the eleven disciples went away into Galilee into the mountain where Jesus instructed them.  And after seeing them they worshipped – but they were uncertain. 

Thoughts for Today

First Thought:

The disciples obeyed.  Through Mary, they were told where to go.  They went.  We’ll talk more about their doubts in a bit.  And regardless of any doubting, they still go.  The disciples have had three days to think about how Jesus died and how they ran away.  Now when the news comes that He is alive, they jump at the chance to get their life back on track.  They obey and come to meet Jesus.  They obey and find themselves restored.

Is it significant to see the last act of the disciples in Matthew as an act of obedience?  If you were in their shoes, would there be any doubt that you would go and see if you could find Jesus?

Second Thought:

They worship.  They see Jesus and worship.  It seems to be a natural thing to worship in this circumstance.  They knew that He died; they now know that He lives!  They finally have seen God’s plan fully unfold and they absolutely respond appropriately.

What reason do you have to worship God today?  How have you seen God’s plan unfold in your life?

Third Thought:

There was some uncertainty here.  Again, I think this is completely normal and natural.  They’ve just witnessed the impossible.  Jesus died; Jesus lives.  It’s not a natural thing.  It is purely a supernatural act of God’s marvelous power.  But I cannot fault them for taking some time to wrap their heads around what all was happening.  It is often the case that when God calls us to something big and powerful that we have some doubt because we cannot understand fully and completely.

When have you doubted what God was doing in your life?  When have you obeyed God even in the midst of your doubt?

Passage for Tomorrow: Matthew 28:18-20