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 If
Jesus had had the spirit of some of us, his work may never have
gotten “off the ground.” When multitudes began to press about in
popular acclaim, his “friends” (literally, “those with him”
or “his relations” Marshall) sought to restrain him saying, “He
is beside himself.” (Mk. 3:21) With an air of mockery they later
chided him for his quiet works, and said, “If thou do these
things, show thyself to the world.” (Jn. 7:3-5) For “neither did
his brethren believe on him.” Do you resolutely continue your work
for the Lord even though your family discourages and ridicules you?
Suppose
John the “immerser” who “started it all” had refused to “step
down”? (Jn. 3:25-f) He “began this movement” and Jesus was but
one of many he had baptized. His disciples seemed a bit puzzled that
“all men” would go to Jesus, and John could have made a few
choice remarks about “Johnny-come-lately.” The “makings” of
a “leadership feud” are here. How would you or I handle this
situation?
The
disciples could have been jealous of John (Bar-Zebedee) “whom
Jesus loved” (Jn. 21:20-f). They evidently recognized this special
affection, and Peter singled him out by a question concerning his
future. He was one of those brothers who had come to the Lord asking
a favored place in the kingdom (Matt. 20:20-f), and feelings ran
high at the time.
And
John, in turn, could have “blown his top” when Peter was named
to “handle the keys.” (Matt. 16:18-f) On that very occasion
Jesus had to correct Peter, and called him “Satan.” Later John
had a good case of “Peter disqualified” because of the
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denial—not to mention the
cursing and swearing. (Matt. 26:69-f) If you were the “favored
John” how would you have used this juicy ammunition?
Perhaps
today’s Paul and Barnabas would “break up for life” because of
their contention over Mark. (Acts 15:37-41) Paul could say Barnabas
loved kinship more than the Lord: and Barnabas could say Paul was
unforgiving, and would not preach if he could not have his own way.
Each would cultivate a “sphere of influence” antagonistic to the
other, and both would “bend the ears of the brotherhood” as they
sought to justify themselves. Can you differ in judgement, go your
separate way, and soon afterwards write of Barnabas as a
fellow-worker (1 Cor. 9:6), or commend Mark, over whom your
judgements differed? (Col. 4:10) Do you feel sorry for Mark?
How
could Peter ever forgive Paul who “withstood him to the face”?
How pride must have suffered under these circumstances! (Gal.
2:11-f) Surely the church in Antioch must have had a “split”
after this (had they been as “we” are) for two spiritual GIANTS
differed publicly, and Jews and Gentiles in Antioch were a
“natural” for party affiliation over this issue.
When
one views the various situations of the first century in the light
of the way “we” handle such today, it is remarkable indeed that
the cause of Christ ever got started. Or is it possible that love
for God and brethren can conquer such problems history awaits your
answer and mine.
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