It is easy to explain away what makes us uncomfortable in Scripture. We assume that what God did in biblical times is not applicable to our day. Or perhaps God’s work or words were intended only for their original audience. Anything that challenges the way we are currently living is dismissed as being relevant only to Middle Eastern, First Century culture.
But here are verses that can trouble us. When Jesus sent out His disciples, they had power. And, their power was manifest. Things happened. People tormented by demons were miraculously set free. People plagued with illness were healed. It was clear to believers and unbelievers alike that a powerful new force had entered the area when one of Jesus’ disciples showed up.
Today there are many Christians who excuse the powerlessness of their own lives by claiming this was a special endowment for the apostles. Or, it was a unique occurrence heralding the coming of the Messiah. Yet we wonder if Christ does not still intend to fill His followers with His miraculous power. Perhaps modern needs are somewhat different. Perhaps the expression of God’s power might look different in our context.
But should we not be experiencing God’s power in our lives in such a way that people recognize there is something special about us?