MATTHEW 28:17-20

When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,  and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

TO PONDER

Have you heard the saying, ‘that there’s a fine line between faith and doubt?’ Verse 7 tells us that – some immediately worshiped Jesus when they saw him, but some were a little hesitant. Some stood back and watch the others. Some questioned if this was really the Messiah. 

People doubting Jesus in biblical times didn’t faze Jesus – and doesn’t stress him now. He still gives those who do follow him (that’s you and me) the invitation to spread the Good News. And continues to give everyone the choice to become a disciple or not. So we have the opportunity to give it our best shot at making disciples. 

Does that scare you? Do you need to become an evangelist to do that? No, not at all. Live your life as a disciple of Jesus. Respond differently to the world’s way. Here’s something easy enough. Pay for the person’s coffee standing behind you in line. That might just prompt a question of ‘why did you do that’. Think about your answer, which might prompt a discussion, and the Holy Spirit will be hard at work for you. The world is changed by your example, not your opinion. 

PRAYER

Father of all, forgive us for the times we have doubted you, for the times we have not lived as your children, for the opportunities of spreading your word we have neglected. Walk beside us in our earthly living. Amen    

Today's devotion written by Mark Simpfendorfer, LifeWay Epping