Scripture
Our verse for today comes from John 13:16-17, ” Most assuredly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them. “
Background
It is no great revelation to read that the master is greater than the servant. None would argue that he who rules over another has the higher ground. As Paul ministered on behalf of Christ and His gospel, he expressly called himself a servant as he wrote Romans, Philippians, and Titus. James also introduced himself as a servant. Likewise did Peter and Jude. And John said God delivered His revelation to His servant while he was a prisoner on the Isle of Patmos. Similarly, it is far from eye-opening that the representative who is sent is subject to the one who sent him. Emissaries and ambassadors, though a select individual or few, are sent to represent parties much greater then themselves, if not entire nations. In eight of Paul’s letters, he called himself an apostle. Peter also referred to himself by this term. An apostle was simply a messenger, a delegate, one who was sent by Christ with a message. So why the emphasis from Jesus on a point so blatantly obvious? The keystone is found in the blessing.
Application
None of us would say we are better than Jesus. Our lips would fail to form the words. Fear of immediate retribution would consume our souls. But knowing these truths does not always manifest itself through our actions. Our words might feign honor to the King, but our refusal to obey brings shame. Jesus said that knowing them, you would be blessed only if you did them. That means the servant of Christ is no true servant unless he yields to the will and commands of the King. The one who is sent with a saving message to a dying world represents Him only when he speaks as the Father speaks. It’s easy to realize that the chasm between us and God is infinite. But it’s just as easy to invert that chasm, placing ourselves above it, by our disobedient and shameful actions. Jesus said to follow Him, and no servant leads his master around. He said His messengers had to take up a cross, and that sounds a lot like death to me.
Charge
As we seek Him today, get your relationship with Jesus correct, in position and in practice.
Author – Rich Holt | BCWorldview.org
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