Communion Despite Failures

“What we have seen and heard we announce to you, so that you also may have communion with us; and our communion is truly with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ. 1 John 1:3.

John was known as the son of thunder. For three years he walked personally with Jesus. He knew what it was like to eat with Him, travel with Him, touch Him, and help Him in His needs. And for three years John argued and disagreed with the other disciples about who would be the greatest. However, during those three years, he remained a son of thunder.

Those who think that conversion and walking in communion with Jesus always produces sudden changes, and that if this does not happen, there is no genuine Christian experience, should think about James, John, and the other disciples.

These argued and debated among themselves all the time they were with Jesus. Even in the upper room, they debated about who would be the greatest. It was not casual arguing. They spent hours walking along the paths debating the topic, and they were so focused on it that they lagged behind, and Jesus would arrive in the village before them. When they finally caught up with Him, the Master would ask them:

“What were you disputing about on the way?” (Mark 9:33). They changed the subject. They were ashamed to admit what they had been doing, but they did not stop doing it.

Jesus treated them kindly and tenderly, and John continued to speak with the Lord even after His ascension. Years later, he wrote: “Our communion is truly with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ.” And he spoke in the present tense.

And as John continued his journey with Jesus, day by day, he was transformed. Then, instead of asking: “Who is the greatest?” and seeking the highest place, he said: “Beloved, let us love one another; for love is from God” (1 John 4:7).

The purpose of devotional life is to enter into communion with Jesus. The purpose of walking, speaking, and having friendship with Him is to strengthen that communion. And ultimately, through it, we will become like Him.