Ahh James and John... the Sons of Thunder. Quick to assume that the reason for their unwelcoming spirit was because of their enmity towards God and His Word, when in actuality the conduct of the Samaritan’s was the result of national prejudices and strict belief that their way of worship was the only acceptable way.
The disciples, though fervent defenders of their Lord, were ignorant of the dangerous motives of their hearts. They failed to recognize their carnal pride and ambition. There was too much bitterness in their zeal which is contrary to Christian meekness and forbearance.
My commentary says that the Gospel dispensation was to be marked by miracles of mercy. Ahh... miracles of mercy!
Our job.. our responsibility as a Christ-follower, is to proclaim the Gospel message to all people. And successful work demands a tolerant spirit. Jesus instructed the disciples, as He instructs US that, “He that is not against us is for us.” And an “Elijah spirit” would not suit the Savior’s times. Saving men, and not destroying them, was to be their mission. And we are called to have the same kind of tolerant spirit today.
Tolerant: The ability to endure, allow or permit by not preventing, not to re-strain, forgiving, lenient, permissive, benevolent.
Quite different from the spirit in which James and John were reacting, and not much different from the way we react to rejection and oppression today.
Miracles of mercy. They’re the way for the follower of Jesus. Showing mercy and love towards hard-to-love people is a miracle, and is be exercised by Christ followers. It’s hard to love those appearing to be against us, or persecuting us, but the Jesus way is to always show mercy. It’s the only way the Gospel will advance and prosper.
And so I am asking today… Lord, teach me to have a tolerant spirit!
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