The Thunder Model
There were at least two pairs of brothers among Jesus' twelve disciples. At their call, Jesus surnamed the pair of James and John Boanerges, or "sons of thunder" (Mark 3:17). Some commentators believe that Jesus gave them this name because of their vehement temperament and fiery temper. Therefore, we have chosen to call their approach to discipleship the thunder model.
Read Luke 9:51-56. Look at the reaction of the disciples to the rejection of Jesus. As you read this, try to put yourself in the place of these disciples. What reasons would they have for reacting as they did? In other words, what things did they hear Jesus say, or what other Old Testament examples might they have drawn from, that could have caused them to react as they did? See, for example, Gen. 6, 7; Matt. 8:12; 13:42; Mark 6:11.
A number of problems exist with the reaction of the disciples. There is here zeal for the Lord, which is good, which all disciples should have. But misdirected zeal, even in a good cause, can produce more harm than good. For instance, James and John used the story of Elijah as their model. The only problem is that they misused it. Elijah brought fire down from heaven to consume sacrifices (1 Kings 18), not recalcitrant people (he had them slain another way).
Even worse, of course, was their harsh and judgmental attitude toward sinners. The work of every disciple of Christ should be that of seeking ways to bring sinners to the foot of the Cross, to show them the incredible mercy and grace of God, who in Himself bore the punishment of their sins. Thus, no matter how sinful their lives have been, through Jesus they can have full pardon, full forgiveness, and a new life in Him. That is our work as disciples; we can leave the judging to the Lord.
How judgmental are you toward those whom you deem wayward and wrong? How do we show these people the grace and mercy of God, while at the same time not giving the impression that we condone or approve of their lives and/or beliefs?
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