Jesus calls his disciples to be part of miraculous events, feeding the 5000 and walking on the water. What is Jesus calling us to do by his authority and strength today?
Worship this week: Saturday – 5:00 p.m. in the chapel
Sunday – 8:30 a.m. – Traditional Worship
9:30 a.m. – Sunday School
10:30 a.m. – Contemporary Worship
February 8, 2015 Feeding the 5000
Miracles and healings were not unusual in Jesus’ day. Many prophets and healers were able to perform them. The miracles and healings of Jesus drew attention to Jesus, and Jesus used those opportunities to tell people how much God loved them. What set Jesus apart from other miracle workers and healers was that he genuinely had been given the authority to perform them in God’s name. Jesus was also the only one ever to be raised from the dead.
The interactions between Jesus and his disciples is of interest in these accounts. First, Jesus’ initial command to them was to feed the crowds themselves. Perhaps he was trying to tell them that they had it within them to call upon God for help in performing such a miracle. Second, Jesus invited Peter to walk on the water with him. In both stories, Jesus tried to show that the disciples had been given God’s authority to perform miracles, to preach, teach, and heal, just as he himself was doing.
Follow these stories of Jesus and his followers.
Sunday, Matthew 14:13-33, Feeding 5,000
Monday, Psalm 95:1-5, Psalm
Tuesday, Matthew 9:18-38, Healings of Jesus
Wednesday, Matthew 10:11-15, The Twelve Apostles
Thursday, Matthew 10:16-42, Coming Persecutions
Friday, Matthew 11:1-19, John the Baptist
Saturday, Matthew 11:20-30, Woes
- What kind of environment did Jesus and his followers step into when they agreed to preach, teach, and perform miracles? How did people respond to their words and actions?
- How much authority has God given you that you are reluctant to claim? What might you accomplish if you accept responsibility for the gifts God has given you?
- Do one thing this week that honors the gifts God has given you that you have been reluctant to claim or use. Share your plan with someone who can hold you accountable for following through with your actions.
