In the dramatic selection of Matthew, the hated tax-collector and Simon, the zealot, as disciples, Jesus demonstrates the weakness of those who pull out of churches because they don’t like certain people or the way things are done. In ordinary Jewish society Simon the zealot would have ‘hated Matthew’s guts’ to the point of wishing mischief and murder on Matthew. In choosing these two, Jesus demonstrated what Jeff Buchanan observed, “that you can only be a real Christian by being with people who are not like you.”
The personal church of the individual
28
Jun
Margaret Causon
28 June, 2011 at 8:43 pm
Hi Dougie, enjoying your wisdom, as always. The sermon I remember most from you was one you preached on about how when you squeeze an orange, you expect orange juice to come out. And when a Christian is ‘squeezed’, then ‘Jesus’ should be revealed. My favourite preach from you, and always a challenge. Andy and I are thinking of you and your family. We were planning to come to NZ but then the earth shook. Take care, kind regards. Margaret and Andy Causon
Daryl
28 June, 2011 at 8:44 pm
I like it! Bless ya Doug….
Doug
29 June, 2011 at 8:27 am
Of course Daryl, the inspiration for that thought came from your message on Sunday!