Bible Reading: Genesis 38-40; Matthew 12:22-50
Memory verse: “He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” Matthew 12:30 (KJV)
Jesus disciples in Mark 9 found a man casting out devils in the name of Jesus and they forbade him from using the name because he is not known to be among those following the master. Hear Jesus’ reply, Mark 9:39-40 (KJV), “But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me. [40] For he that is not against us is on our part.” Obviously, the unnamed man gathered people by using the name of Jesus. You can only gather if you believe in Jesus.
You are either gathering with Jesus or scattering; there is no middle ground. Whether you are publicly following Jesus, like His disciples or not, one thing must be clear: the fruits of your belief in Jesus will be seen. John 1:9 (KJV) says, “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:” Power when it comes on you can not be hidden. But it only comes on those who truly receive Jesus.
Even though He is now in heaven, Jesus is still gathering people today like He did when He came to the earth. Those gathered are expected to do same. He selected 12 disciples and gathered till they became 70 in number, and then 120. When the Holy Spirit came during the Pentecost more than 3000 souls were added. Today, we have millions of people following Christ. But are you gathering with the Master? It is either you are for Him or against Him.
Make a decision today to tell people about Jesus and the Kingdom of heaven. You gather by telling people about Jesus and His Kingdom. Jesus is still gathering with us as stated in Matthew 24:19-20 (KJV), “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: [20] Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”
Action Point: Make it a duty to talk to at least five persons daily about Jesus and His Kingdom. Be deliberate in your plan to gather souls to the kingdom.
Bro. Worthmore Aghanenu