"Some Doubted"

16 Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. 17 And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. (Matt. 28:16-17)

This passage is important to understand the heart of a true disciple. When we consider our own spirits and tendencies, there is real weakness. This weakness needs to be acknowledged and given to Christ lest it grow uncontrolled and render us spiritually useless. 

Christ summoned His disciples to a specific mountain, possibly the Mount of Olives, at the very end of His earthly ministry to give them a universe-transforming commission. Scripture specifically records Jesus’ appearing to a number of His disciples and generally recounts that hundreds of people had seen Him. There was no doubt in their minds that Jesus had risen from the grave. But when they mett Him on the mountain, we read that “when they saw Him, some doubted.” 

I think a really important question for us to answer is, “What were they doubting?” As I read the biblical accounts, the disciples were constantly “missing the point.” From parables to sermons, they confused heavenly truths with earthly politics constantly. However, on that mountain, with Jesus standing right in front of them, they got it. They got is so much that the weight of responsibility that was about to be given to them terrified some. I think that this is what they were doubting. Not Jesus, or His power, but their own capability.

Have you ever been there? You are studying the Bible and you read a passage where *BOOM* the Holy Spirit puts His Divine finger on that area of growth. You desire to serve God and follow His commands, but you are very aware of your own shortfalls. Remember that 11 of those disciples had abandoned Jesus in His greatest moment of need. There doubts were not unfounded. 

But praise the Lord that Jesus centered the ability and authority on Himself and His Divine prerogative. 18 “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me...” The power behind their life’s purpose was because Christ had risen from the grave and was the conquering, Messiah. 

Jesus has the same job for you that he gave to His disciples that day. Broadly you life’s goal is to make disciples of Jesus. But specifically, God has unique details that will look different in your life than in another’s. When sin and struggles mount don’t lose heart. Look to Him!

He is worthy! All power belongs to Him! Trust Him!

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