Getting More From God

The eleven followers went to Galilee to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go.

Matt 28:16 NCV

In order to get more from God, eleven Christ followers had to do one thing before receiving the Great Commission from Christ Jesus.  These eleven followers, disciples, of Christ were whom Jesus had appointed, from among all other disciples, to be apostles in Mark 3:13-16.  When appointed, designated as apostles we see a similar pattern to their being commissioned (Matt 28:16-20).  Mark wrote, “Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him. He appointed twelve—designating them apostles…” 

How did the eleven get more form God?  What is similar in how they are designated and commissioned?  Very simply, the eleven were obedient.  In both instances the eleven went up on the mountain as Jesus had told them—when designated them apostles (Mk 3) and when commissioned them to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matt 28:19). 

In disobedience they would not have been on the mountain to receive the anointing of God upon them as apostles.  Obedience was crucial in getting more from God—receiving empowerment in the authority of an office or commission came only after doing as they were told.  In obedience the eleven had to first go up on the mountain.  In disobedience they would not have went up on the mountain; the result is uncertain, however, it is apparent that they wouldn’t have been in the right place to have received more from God.

The eleven disciples—before being appointed and commissioned—had to be on the mountain where “Jesus had told them to go!”  It is no different for you today.  You may not be told to go up on a mountain, but, to get more from God, you will have a mountain experience.  In obedience God will give you more—no, not for you, but for God’s glory.

Owen <><