You Must Have and Move With Your Company of Believers
Updated: Oct 1
Rev. Tse Amable | September 28 2024 | John 18:1-11
KEY VERSE:
“When he had finished praying, Jesus left with his disciples and crossed the Kidron Valley. On the other side there was an olive grove, and HE AND HIS DISCIPLES WENT INTO IT.” John 18:1 (NIV)
MESSAGE:
In our key verse, Jesus Christ took his disciples with him to the Kidron Valley (Gethsemane) because he needed their company, companionship and fellowship.
Jesus Christ, on earth, did not walk alone. He had his company of disciples with whom he moved in and out. There was a group of twelve (called the apostles). In Mark 3:14, we read that “he appointed twelve — designating them apostles — THAT THEY MIGHT BE WITH HIM and that he might send them out to preach”. Take note that Jesus Christ placed BEING WITH HIM before GOING OUT TO PREACH. Apart from the twelve apostles, there was the inner core of three apostles – Peter, James and John. On the mount of transfiguration, they were with him. When he went to Gethsemane for the last time, he took them with him.
Jesus Christ spent time with his “COMPANY” of disciples, ate with them, travelled with them and did ministry with them. He understood the principle of working, moving and staying with a company of good people. He knew that just as a bad company would corrupt and destroy good morals, a good company would also keep away bad morals. The old saying goes “SHOW ME YOUR FRIEND AND I WILL TELL YOU YOUR CHARACTER”. Another old adage says “BIRDS OF THE SAME FEATHER FLOCK TOGETHER”.
When Peter and James were released by the Jewish authorities following their arrest for the crime of healing the lame man, St. Luke recorded that they “returned to THEIR OWN [COMPANY] and told all that the chief priests and elders had said to them” (Acts 4:23 AMP).
You too must have and move with your own COMPANY of believers because “two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-11).
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Do you have a “COMPANY” of believers who you spend time with, pray with and serve the Lord with? Is there any place you go which you do not feel comfortable taking a believer with you?
PRAYER: Father, I pray that you give me good company, which can sharpen my walk with you. Deliver me from a bad company which will corrupt my good morals. Amen!
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: DISCIPLES The word "disciples" comes from the Greek term mathētēs (μαθητής), meaning a learner or follower. It refers to someone who is actively learning from and adhering to the teachings of another, especially in a close, committed relationship with their teacher.
In this passage, the disciples were the close followers of Jesus who not only learned from Him but also accompanied Him in His mission. They actively participated in His ministry and shared in His life. Jesus'
decision to take His disciples with Him to the olive grove reflects His desire for companionship and the importance of community in fulfilling God’s purposes.
Discipleship is not a solitary journey but one marked by learning from Christ and walking alongside others. Just as Jesus formed a close-knit group of followers, believers today are called to live in fellowship and mutual support, helping each other grow in faith and fulfil their God-given missions. Reflections: What does it mean to be a true disciple of Christ, walking closely with Him and in community with others? Are you actively following Jesus and nurturing relationships that help you and others grow in faith?
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