Jesus' Mission on the move

Post #9 – As Reported From The Book Of Luke

BREAKING — Headlines abound as reports surge in regards to Jesus’ chosen Twelve. It seems Jesus gave them power and authority to drive out demons, cure diseases, heal the sick, and proclaim the Good News on their own.

The sad news, however, is Herod the tetrarch ordered John the baptist beheaded. Then, upon hearing what the Son of God was accomplishing, Herod tried to see Jesus due to rumors that John had resurrected as The Christ.

Jesus’ Miracles Press On!

Persistent with His status proclaiming miracles, the True Healer/Teacher has now become a remarkable chef. Using only five loaves of bread, two fish, and the special ingredient of a blessing, Jesus fed 5,000 people! (Read more on this amazing accomplishment at Nazarene Man Offers Thanks & Feeds 5,000!)

Circulating among the people are rumors that Jesus is a risen John the Baptist, a prophet from long ago or specifically Elijah. It is the disciple Peter who confidently proclaims Jesus is “God’s Messiah.” Upon hearing this, Jesus has instructed the disciples not to tell anyone.

Stunningly, The Messiah predicted His own death just nine days ago when He was quoted as saying: “The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.”

God Speaks At Moses And Elijah’s Return!

Sources close to the Son of Man reported yesterday Jesus was again out praying. This time on a mountain. He took disciples Peter, John and James with Him. As the disciples watched Jesus pray, they witnessed His face change and His clothes become bright.

Astonishingly, Moses and Elijah appeared in glorious splendor. The two men spoke of Jesus’ upcoming departure. Then something spectacular and breathtakingly marvelous happened- God spoke: “This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to him.”

Jesus Gets Back To Work For The People.

Now just 24 hours after that dramatically picturesque scene, Jesus is back amongst the crowds accomplishing what is “normal” to Him by healing a demon-possessed boy from convulsions.

Amid the people marveling at Jesus’ miraculous healing, Jesus again was heard predicting His own death: “Listen carefully to what I am about to tell you: The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men.” Exit polls reveal the people did not understand what He meant.

Pride And Jealousy Abound.

On a dysfunctional note, in a display of selfish pride the disciples were witnessed arguing who among them would be the greatest. Responding to their bickering, Jesus took a little child and offered an on-point reaction : “Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For it is the one who is least among you all who is the greatest.”

Jealousy also has set in among the disciples. They have not been able to drive out demons. So when they witnessed someone else driving out demons in Jesus’ name they tried to stop him. Jesus, however, has an open arms attitude to all His followers.

Others Prepare The Way For Christ.

Messengers report being sent to a Samaritan village to prepare for Jesus’ arrival. But the national conversation is Jesus is not wanted there. Although this decision upset the disciples, Jesus simply moved on to another village. Along the way, certain men wanted to travel with The Son of Man. Jesus, however, made it clear He expects full dedication from all followers.

Details reveal after those encounters, Jesus himself appointed seventy-two others. Their task is to travel in pairs ahead of Jesus to other towns. The Teacher provided the group with detailed instructions about their journey; referring to personal baggage, greetings and food and lodging.