Overcoming Disciples’ Challenges series
1. The transformative power of Christ’s vision.
“21 Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James, son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets. Jesus called them, 22 and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.” Matthew 4:21-22
17 James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them he gave the name Boanerges, which means “sons of thunder”).” Mark 3:17
· Boanerges is an ancient Greek from the Hebrew idiom sons of thunder.
· Perhaps Jesus was describing the sons of Zebedee outspoken character and at the same time giving them a vision of their future – John would speak without reserve for the gospel.
· By following the Lord, it means they became disciples or learners of Jesus.
2. The transformative power of Christ’s word.
“38 “Teacher,” said John, “we saw someone driving out demons in your name and we told him to stop, because he was not one of us.” 39 “Do not stop him,” Jesus said. “For no one who does a miracle in my name can in the next moment say anything bad about me, 40 for whoever is not against us is for us. 41 Truly I tell you, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to the Messiah will certainly not lose their reward.” Mark 9:38-41.
· Jesus words come to them in the form of instructions, commands, exhortations, and admonitions.
· Jesus revealed the flaws and cracks in their character.
· Allowing Jesus’ words to sink deep into our minds will help us change our character.
3. The transformative power of Christ’s nature.
“30 Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. 31 But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.” John 20:30-31.
· John witnessed Jesus’ transfiguration according to Mathew 17:1-3.
· He heard the voice of God from the clouds affirming Jesus as His Son and the authority Jesus has over them. See Matthew 17:5.
· He recorded how Jesus said that He is coequal co-substantial and co-eternal with His Father. See John 10:30; 14:9
· John became gracious, truthful, humble, and loving.