“For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful” (1 Corinthians 1:26)
READ
REFLECT
If you had your choice of choosing any competitor in the sport of fitness to be part of your team, who would you choose? When building a powerful team or organization, what are the key ingredients? Strong foundations, experienced team members, and intelligent leadership are vital. But, when Jesus had the opportunity to draft his team, are these the components he chose?
After praying the entire night, He chose twelve men with no experience and significant limitations due to occupational backgrounds. At least four were simple fishermen. Two had anger issues. Two were virtual enemies due to their political leanings. One man’s name meant “mama’s boy.” Another was nicknamed for his small stature. Jesus willingly chose the one who would betray Him. And, later He used a man who was involved in seeking to kill this initial group for their faith. These were the individuals chosen to preach the greatest message ever known and write the New Testament we continue to read today.
Why did Jesus choose such powerless people to do the most powerful job in the history of the world? It was to ensure the Message received all the attention, not the messengers. It is still the same today. The message of the cross, although foolish to the world, is the only thing that matters. We must not let our sinful desire to receive human approval interfere with that message. The message itself demonstrates we have no intrinsic qualifications making us eligible to participate on His team. Due to our sin and God’s holiness, Christ had to die on the cross for us to experience fellowship with our God.
Therefore, as the Scriptures say, ‘If you want to boast, boast only about the Lord.’ (1 Corinthians 1:31)
RESPOND
- What would be the qualifications you would look for in a solid team if you were Jesus?
- How does Jesus’ selection of His apostles demonstrate His belief in the power of God?
- What qualifications do you possess that make you think make you are “eligible” for love, value, and significance?
- What does this teach you about the love God has for you?
Thanks for today’s WOD, Chip! Can I ask a question in return?
Is there a difference between being “called” and being “chosen”? What are the implications of this if there is a difference? Jesus said, “Many are called, but few are chosen.”
Have a great one 🙂
This is perfect as I sit here and fret over starting our new chapter! I still struggle with the sinful desire to win human approval, whether I realize it or not. I am afraid my lack of leadership abilities will cause others to scoff! Placing my trust in God to put together this team!