Read today’s texts first: 1 Peter 1-5
The Great Commission is more about discipleship
than evangelism. We wouldn’t bring a baby
into the world and then abandon it.
than evangelism. We wouldn’t bring a baby
into the world and then abandon it.
Every word in the Bible is inspired by the Holy Spirit, but I don’t believe it came to human authors through verbal dictation. God allowed the unique personalities and perspectives of each writer to show through in their writings, while still ensuring the words they wrote were infallible. That’s why it is helpful to understand the writer’s background as we read through their books.
For example, we know much about Peter from the gospels and we see his characteristics emerge through his writings, albeit much more refined after Pentecost and years of church leadership. Peter loved to fish and Jesus connected his passion for fishing into compassion for the lost: follow me and I will make you fishers of men (Matthew 4:19). But as Peter matured in his faith, learning through his failures, Jesus expanded His calling: feed My sheep (John 21:15-17).
This will happen to all of us. We must never lose our compassion for the lost and our commitment to evangelism. Your preChristian family, friends and neighbours need you to introduce them to Jesus. But that’s just the beginning. The Great Commission is more about discipleship than evangelism: Go into all the world and make disciples (Matthew 28:19). We wouldn’t bring a baby into the world and then leave the newborn on the streets to fend for himself.
Peter learned from the Great Shepherd how to care for the flock and, if need be, to lay down his life for the sheep (John 10:11). Everything he writes in his two letters to his fellow believers carries his deep love for Jesus and His church.
To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers--not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away (5:1-4).
“Lord, that’s what I want to do in the final phases of my life on earth – shepherd the flock You entrust to my care. Help me live today as a loving under-shepherd of the Great Shepherd and Overseer of my soul (2:25).”
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