Today’s Scripture: John 15:15; Psalms 25:14
Jesus and His crew spent more than three years together. Of the twelve men he selected, one was a despised tax collector (Matthew); one was a thief (Judas); two had quick tempers (James and John); and one was unpredictable (Peter). Jesus patiently mentored, modeled, and at times mildly rebuked them.
Under the divine Rabbi’s tutelage, the disciples changed from their former occupational identities to become disciples, and then servants. Finally, one day Jesus spoke from his heart and told them, “I no longer call you servants . . . instead, I have called you friends.” The Greek meaning of the word “friends” in this passage means warm affection; an intimate friendship, characterized by tender, heartfelt consideration and kinship.
This was a beautiful overture on Jesus’ part. Servants were not privy to the details of their master’s business; however, they were still obligated to obey. Friends, however, were trusted confidants who had the “inside scoop.” In fact, Jesus told them, “Everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.” They had developed a trusting relationship that took these men from ordinary fishermen to close friends with the Messiah.
The Psalmist said, “The Lord confides in those who fear him. He makes his covenant known to them.” This is wonderful relationship with the Almighty, and we should cherish it.
- Do you consider yourself a servant of Christ or a friend of Christ? What do you see is the diference?