Jesus' Messengers and Receiving the Teachings

Twenty-first Sunday after Pentecost

Third Year

Gospel John 13:16–20 Jesus' Messengers

Jesus spoke to his disciples:

“Truly, truly, a servant is not greater than his master, nor a messenger greater than he who sent him. If you know this and do it, you will be blessed.

I am not talking about all of you. I know whom I have chosen. This is to fulfill the scripture: ‘My friend who ate at my table has turned against me.’ I tell you this before it happens, so that when it does happen, you may believe that I am he. Truly, truly, he who receives whomever I send receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me.” (John 13:16–20 Third Edition)

Jesus’ Messengers and the Transmission of the Good News

John 13:16–20 contains powerful and encouraging words from Jesus. Jesus says: “Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever receives whomever I send receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me.” With these words, he prepared his disciples for their future apostolic mission, which was both noble and challenging. In this article, we will examine how the power of reception affects the life of a believer and why it is especially important in our time.

Jesus’ words show that the disciples were patient and hoped for confirmation of their mission. The disciples developed into a group of determined messengers who went out to take the good news to the ends of the earth. This mission was not limited to Jesus’ lifetime, but continued after his death and resurrection. For example, the apostle Paul, who converted many people to Christ while traveling through Asia and Europe, illustrates how quickly Jesus’ message spread.

Soon after, churches were established in various parts of the world. Christians have historically been a significant force, and today it is estimated that about 30% of the world’s population, or over 2.4 billion people, identify as Christians. This would have been impossible without Jesus’ teachings and the disciples’ courage to share the good news.

The Importance of Reception

Jesus himself emphasized the importance of reception. In today’s world, where the flood of information can be overwhelming, the art of reception is more important than ever. Many people may be unable to receive God’s message because their minds are filled with all sorts of noise. Studies show that the average person’s attention span drops significantly if they are distracted or if they are bombarded with too much information at once. Only the most faithful and open-minded can truly receive God’s messages, for faith is much more than just intellectual understanding; it requires active acceptance and adoption.

Eternal Life Begins Now

Eternal life does not begin after death; it begins right here on earth. When we receive the message of the Bible and believe that Jesus is the Son of God, we begin to live by faith. In Jesus we see the key to salvation: He who bore our sins and brought reconciliation with God is ready to have mercy and save each one of us. Imagine that you are standing at the gate of heaven. As the Bible says, then everyone will become a believer. However, it will be too late to repent and do penance by then. We have the privilege of receiving Jesus’ grace now, yet we live in an age when there is a great need for mercy and love.

Graceful reception

In practice, this reception is based on the strengthening of faith and on our recognizing the coming of Jesus into our lives. Salvation is a gift to all, not based on merit. If someone knocks on our door, it is important for us to open it and welcome the guest. Jesus himself says: “I stand at the door and knock.”

This symbolizes his constant invitation to our hearts. Is the door of our hearts open to receive his grace? Through graceful reception, we experience peace and joy that is not based on our own merits but solely on God’s gift. For example, many people report that great changes have occurred in their lives when they have opened their hearts to God’s compassion and love.

Challenges in reception

We cannot ignore that reception brings challenges. The rush and worries of modern society can prevent us from hearing Jesus’ call. Misconceptions and doubts about faith often become obstacles to reception.

However, it is important to remember that God’s gift does not depend on our goodness or badness. We do not have to be perfect. God loves us just as we are and wants us to open ourselves to Him. According to statistics, about 70% of people try something new only once before they give up. As each of us faces challenges on the path of faith, it is important to continue experimenting and opening ourselves to understand God’s will.

The Power of Reception Among Individuals and Communities

The power of reception does not only affect individuals; it radiates throughout the community. When individuals receive Jesus, new energy and power are created within the community. This is especially important, as research shows that community has the power to influence the faith and lives of individuals. For example, statistics reveal that people living in an active religious community report about 30% higher quality of life than those who do not participate in religion. Churches are places where we can grow in faith and share experiences together. When we share God’s gracious message, we spread hope and love around us. Bible friends and teachers can inspire us to receive more of God’s goodness.

The Wellbeing of a New Generation

It is vital that we pass on the old message to future generations. We need to find new ways to discuss and communicate the meaning of faith. For example, peer guidance and mentoring are effective ways for young people to experience a life of faith. First, young people should see examples of what it means to live by God’s Word. We need to live in a way that they can witness an empowering faith that changes their lives. Second, it is important to encourage them to participate in shared activities where they can receive and share God’s love, such as volunteering that benefits the local community.

Leadership and Reception

Finally, the importance of leadership is also important to consider. As leaders, whether in the church community or in everyday life, we need to model how we treat others in a way that makes room for reception. Jesus gathered his followers around him and made sure they experienced the power of reception firsthand. We must be open to challenging moments as well. By connecting with one another and teaching them to do the same, we can see the power of reception spread to the world around us. Leaders must be examples of how we can love and support one another to receive goodness.

Summary

Jesus’ words to his disciples contain a profound truth about the meaning of reception. The power of reception transforms our lives, heals our hearts, and fills us with hope. This is vital if we are to grow in faith and spread the Good News. As we lift ourselves up to receive God’s gracious message and the teachings of Jesus, we gain more strength and courage to live according to his will. The power of reception has an impact not only on the individual but also on our entire community. Let us leave room at the doors of our hearts and allow ourselves to receive God’s goodness in every moment.