“We do not know what Spirit we are of.” The disciples and the religious leaders misunderstood God. The practice of the day was to use religion selfishly to obtain materialistic goals. Jesus came to reveal the Kingdom of God. Jesus came to clarify the way to please God. The Scriptures record multiple instances where God said, “I am not like you.” God said, “I desire mercy and not sacrifice.” The process of understanding, of becoming born from above, of following Jesus in Spirit and Truth takes diligence and time. Practice taking a longer view of life. People are watching. Be consistent. Be loving. Be obedient.
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55: Jesus Rebukes James’ And John’s Desire To Misuse Spiritual Power
Luke 9:51-56
AS JESUS was making his way toward Jerusalem, he sent messengers before him. They entered a village of Samaria to make ready for Jesus’ passing through that place.
The Samaritans would not receive Jesus because he was going toward Jerusalem. Two of his disciples, James and John, became very angry over this and said:
“Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from Heaven, and consume them, even as Elijah did?”
But Jesus turned and rebuked them, saying:
“Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. For the son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them.”
So they went to another village.