Knjiga Urantije
DIO IV. Isusov život i učenja
POGLAVLJE 138 : UVJEŽBAVANJE GLASNIKA KRALJEVSTVA
Paper 138
Training the Kingdom’s Messengers
Training the Kingdom’s Messengers
Sections
- Introduction
- § 1. Final Instructions
- § 2. Choosing the Six
- § 3. The Call of Matthew and Simon
- § 4. The Call of the Twins
- § 5. The Call of Thomas and Judas
- § 6. The Week of Intensive Training
- § 7. Another Disappointment
- § 8. First Work of the Twelve
- § 9. Five Months of Testing
- § 10. Organization of the Twelve
Nakon što je održao propovijed o „Kraljevstvu“, Isus je toga poslijepodneva sazvao šestoricu apostola i počeo im iznositi svoje planove za obilazak gradova i naselja oko Genezaretskog jezera. Njegova su braća Jakov i Juda bila duboko povrijeđena što nisu bila pozvana na ovaj sastanak. Do tog su se časa smatrala pripadnicima najužeg kruga Isusovih suradnika. Ali Isus nije namjeravao imati bliske rođake među pripadnicima ovog zbora apostolskih upravitelja kraljevstva. To što nije uključio Jakova i Judu među izabranu nekolicinu, zajedno s njegovom prividnom udaljenošću od majke još od događaja u Kani, označilo je početak sve dubljeg razdora između Isusa i njegove obitelji. Takvo je stanje potrajalo tijekom cijele njegove javne službe — gotovo su ga odbacili — a te razlike nisu bile u potpunosti prevladane sve do nakon njegove smrti i uskrsnuća. Njegova se majka neprestano kolebala između promjenjive vjere i nade te sve snažnijih osjećaja razočaranja, poniženja i očaja. Jedino je Ruta, najmlađa sestra, ostala nepokolebljivo odana svom ocu-bratu.
138:0.1 (1538.1)
AFTER preaching the sermon on “The Kingdom,” Jesus called the six apostles together that afternoon and began to disclose his plans for visiting the cities around and about the Sea of Galilee. His brothers James and Jude were very much hurt because they were not called to this conference. Up to this time they had regarded themselves as belonging to Jesus’ inner circle of associates. But Jesus planned to have no close relatives as members of this corps of apostolic directors of the kingdom. This failure to include James and Jude among the chosen few, together with his apparent aloofness from his mother ever since the experience at Cana, was the starting point of an ever-widening gulf between Jesus and his family. This situation continued throughout his public ministry—they very nearly rejected him—and these differences were not fully removed until after his death and resurrection. His mother constantly wavered between attitudes of fluctuating faith and hope, and increasing emotions of disappointment, humiliation, and despair. Only Ruth, the youngest, remained unswervingly loyal to her father-brother.
Sljedećeg dana, u nedjelju, 23. lipnja 26. godine po Kr., Isus je šestorici dao svoje konačne upute. Naložio im je da pođu, dvojica po dvojica, naviještati radosnu vijest o kraljevstvu. Zabranio im je krštavati i savjetovao im da se suzdrže od javnog propovijedanja. Zatim je objasnio da će im kasnije dopustiti javno propovijedati, ali da za neko vrijeme i iz više razloga, želi da steknu praktično iskustvo u osobnom radu s ljudima. Isus je namjeravao da njihovo prvo putovanje bude u cijelosti posvećeno osobnom radu. Premda je ova objava donekle razočarala apostole, ipak su, barem djelomično, razumjeli zašto je Isus želio da navještaj kraljevstva započne na ovaj način, pa su krenuli puni vedrine i samopouzdanog elana. Poslao ih je po dvojicu: Jakova i Ivana u Kheresu, Andriju i Petra u Kafarnaum, a Filipa i Natanaela u Taricheju.
138:1.1 (1538.3)
The next day, Sunday, June 23, {scaps{scaps{a.d.}scaps}scaps} 26, Jesus imparted his final instructions to the six. He directed them to go forth, two and two, to teach the glad tidings of the kingdom. He forbade them to baptize and advised against public preaching. He went on to explain that later he would permit them to preach in public, but that for a season, and for many reasons, he desired them to acquire practical experience in dealing personally with their fellow men. Jesus purposed to make their first tour entirely one of personal work. Although this announcement was something of a disappointment to the apostles, still they saw, at least in part, Jesus’ reason for thus beginning the proclamation of the kingdom, and they started out in good heart and with confident enthusiasm. He sent them forth by twos, James and John going to Kheresa, Andrew and Peter to Capernaum, while Philip and Nathaniel went to Tarichea.
Prije nego što su započeli ovo prvo dvotjedno razdoblje službe, Isus im je objavio da želi zarediti dvanaestoricu apostola koji će nastaviti djelo kraljevstva nakon njegova odlaska te je ovlastio svakoga od njih da između svojih prvih obraćenika izabere jednoga čovjeka za članstvo u budućem apostolskom zboru. Ivan tada upita: „Ali, Učitelju, hoće li tih šest ljudi doći među nas i dijeliti s nama sve ravnopravno, premda smo mi s tobom još od Jordana i slušali smo sva tvoja učenja kao pripremu za naš prvi rad za kraljevstvo?” A Isus odgovori: „Da, Ivane, ljudi koje izaberete postat će jedno s nama, a vi ćete ih poučiti svemu što se odnosi na kraljevstvo, kao što sam ja poučio vas.” Nakon ovih riječi Isus ih je napustio.
138:1.2 (1538.4)
Before they began this first two weeks of service, Jesus announced to them that he desired to ordain twelve apostles to continue the work of the kingdom after his departure and authorized each of them to choose one man from among his early converts for membership in the projected corps of apostles. John spoke up, asking: “But, Master, will these six men come into our midst and share all things equally with us who have been with you since the Jordan and have heard all your teaching in preparation for this, our first labor for the kingdom?” And Jesus replied: “Yes, John, the men you choose shall become one with us, and you will teach them all that pertains to the kingdom, even as I have taught you.” After thus speaking, Jesus left them.
Šestorica se nisu razišla kako bi započela svoj rad sve dok nisu izmijenili mnoge riječi raspravljajući o Isusovoj uputi da svaki od njih izabere novog apostola. Na koncu je prevladao Andrijin savjet i oni su krenuli na svoj rad. Andrija je u biti rekao: „Učitelj je u pravu; nas je premalo da bismo mogli obuhvatiti ovaj posao. Potrebno je više učitelja, a Učitelj nam je iskazao veliko povjerenje time što nam je povjerio izbor ove šestorice novih apostola.” Ovoga jutra, dok su se razdvajali kako bi pošli na svoj rad, u svakom je srcu bilo pomalo skrivene potištenosti. Znali su da će im Isus nedostajati, a osim vlastitog straha i nesigurnosti, ovo nije bio način na koji su zamišljali da će se uspostaviti nebesko kraljevstvo.
138:1.3 (1539.1)
The six did not separate to go to their work until they had exchanged many words in discussion of Jesus’ instruction that each of them should choose a new apostle. Andrew’s counsel finally prevailed, and they went forth to their labors. In substance Andrew said: “The Master is right; we are too few to encompass this work. There is need for more teachers, and the Master has manifested great confidence in us inasmuch as he has intrusted us with the choosing of these six new apostles.” This morning, as they separated to go to their work, there was a bit of concealed depression in each heart. They knew they were going to miss Jesus, and besides their fear and timidity, this was not the way they had pictured the kingdom of heaven being inaugurated.
Bilo je dogovoreno da će šestorica djelovati dva tjedna, nakon čega će se vratiti u Zebedejevu kuću na savjetovanje. U međuvremenu je Isus otišao u Nazaret kako bi posjetio Josipa i Šimuna te druge članove svoje obitelji koji su živjeli u toj okolici. Isus je učinio sve što je ljudski bilo moguće, u skladu sa svojom predanošću vršenju volje svoga Oca, kako bi sačuvao povjerenje i naklonost svoje obitelji. U tom je pogledu učinio svoju punu dužnost, pa i više od toga.
138:1.4 (1539.2)
It had been arranged that the six were to labor for two weeks, after which they were to return to the home of Zebedee for a conference. Meantime Jesus went over to Nazareth to visit with Joseph and Simon and other members of his family living in that vicinity. Jesus did everything humanly possible, consistent with his dedication to the doing of his Father’s will, to retain the confidence and affection of his family. In this matter he did his full duty and more.
Prvo misionarsko putovanje šestorice apostola pokazalo se vrlo uspješnim. Svi su otkrili veliku vrijednost neposrednog i osobnog kontakta s ljudima. Vratili su se k Isusu s boljim razumijevanjem religije kao potpuno i isključivo osobnog iskustva. Počeli su osjećati koliko su obični ljudi bili gladni riječi religiozne utjehe i duhovnog podstreka. Okupili su se oko Isusa i, dok su svi željeli govoriti u isti čas, Andrija je preuzeo vodstvo te je prozivao jednoga po jednoga da podnesu svoje službene izvještaje Učitelju i iznesu svoje prijedloge za nove apostole.
138:2.1 (1539.4)
This first missionary tour of the six was eminently successful. They all discovered the great value of direct and personal contact with men. They returned to Jesus more fully realizing that, after all, religion is purely and wholly a matter of personal experience. They began to sense how hungry were the common people to hear words of religious comfort and spiritual good cheer. When they assembled about Jesus, they all wanted to talk at once, but Andrew assumed charge, and as he called upon them one by one, they made their formal reports to the Master and presented their nominations for the six new apostles.
Isus je, nakon što je svaki čovjek iznio svoj izbor za novog apostola, zamolio sve ostale da glasuju o tim prijedlozima; tako je svih šest novih apostola bilo službeno prihvaćeno od svih šestorice starijih apostola. Isus je zatim objavio da će svi zajedno posjetiti te kandidate i pozvati ih u službu.
138:2.2 (1539.5)
Jesus, after each man had presented his selection for the new apostleships, asked all the others to vote upon the nomination; thus all six of the new apostles were formally accepted by all of the older six. Then Jesus announced that they would all visit these candidates and give them the call to service.
6. Juda Iškariotski, sin jedinac bogatih židovskih roditelja koji su živjeli u Jerihonu. Bio je prionuo uz Ivana Krstitelja, a njegovi su ga saducejski roditelji bili odbacili. Tražio je zaposlenje u ovim krajevima kada su ga pronašli Isusovi apostoli i ponajviše zbog njegova iskustva s financijama, Natanael ga je pozvao da im se pridruži. Juda Iškariotski bio je jedini Judejac među dvanaestoricom apostola.
138:2.9 (1540.2)
6. Judas Iscariot was an only son of wealthy Jewish parents living in Jericho. He had become attached to John the Baptist, and his Sadducee parents had disowned him. He was looking for employment in these regions when Jesus’ apostles found him, and chiefly because of his experience with finances, Nathaniel invited him to join their ranks. Judas Iscariot was the only Judean among the twelve apostles.
Isus je proveo cijeli dan sa šestoricom, odgovarajući na njihova pitanja i slušajući pojedinosti njihovih izvještaja, jer su imali mnogo zanimljivih i korisnih iskustava za ispričati. Sada su uvidjeli mudrost Učiteljeva plana da ih pošalje raditi tiho i osobnim pristupom prije početka njihovih većih javnih napora.
138:2.10 (1540.3)
Jesus spent a full day with the six, answering their questions and listening to the details of their reports, for they had many interesting and profitable experiences to relate. They now saw the wisdom of the Master’s plan of sending them out to labor in a quiet and personal manner before the launching of their more pretentious public efforts.
Sljedećeg dana Isus je otišao sa šestoricom kako bi pozvao Mateja, carinika. Matej ih je čekao, nakon što je uskladio svoje knjige i pripremio se predati poslove svoga ureda svome bratu. Kad su se približili carinici, Andrija je s Isusom prišao Isusu, koji je pogledavši Mateja u lice, rekao: „Slijedi me.” Matej je ustao i pošao s Isusom i apostolima u svoju kuću.
138:3.1 (1540.4)
The next day Jesus and the six went to call upon Matthew, the customs collector. Matthew was awaiting them, having balanced his books and made ready to turn the affairs of his office over to his brother. As they approached the toll house, Andrew stepped forward with Jesus, who, looking into Matthew’s face, said, “Follow me.” And he arose and went to his house with Jesus and the apostles.
Matej je rekao Isusu za gozbu koju je pripremio za tu večer, odnosno da bi želio prirediti večeru za svoju obitelj i prijatelje ako Isus pristane biti počasni gost. Isus je kimnuo glavom u znak pristanka. Petar je zatim odveo Mateja na stranu i objasnio mu da je pozvao jednog Šimuna da se pridruži apostolima te je dobio njegov pristanak da i Šimun bude pozvan na ovu gozbu.
138:3.2 (1540.5)
Matthew told Jesus of the banquet he had arranged for that evening, at least that he wished to give such a dinner to his family and friends if Jesus would approve and consent to be the guest of honor. And Jesus nodded his consent. Peter then took Matthew aside and explained that he had invited one Simon to join the apostles and secured his consent that Simon be also bidden to this feast.
138:3.3 (1540.6)
After a noontide luncheon at Matthew’s house they all went with Peter to call upon Simon the Zealot, whom they found at his old place of business, which was now being conducted by his nephew. When Peter led Jesus up to Simon, the Master greeted the fiery patriot and only said, “Follow me.”
138:3.4 (1540.7)
They all returned to Matthew’s home, where they talked much about politics and religion until the hour of the evening meal. The Levi family had long been engaged in business and tax gathering; therefore many of the guests bidden to this banquet by Matthew would have been denominated “publicans and sinners” by the Pharisees.
U ono vrijeme, kada bi ugledna osoba priređivala ovakvu gozbu, bio je običaj da se sve zainteresirane osobe zadrže u glavnoj prostoriji za gozbu kako bi promatrale goste za objedom i slušale razgovore i govore uglednih ljudi. Stoga je tom prilikom bilo prisutno mnogo kafarnaumskih farizeja koji su došli promatrati Isusovo ponašanje na ovako nesvakidašnjem društvenom skupu.
138:3.5 (1540.8)
In those days, when a reception-banquet of this sort was tendered a prominent individual, it was the custom for all interested persons to linger about the banquet room to observe the guests at meat and to listen to the conversation and speeches of the men of honor. Accordingly, most of the Capernaum Pharisees were present on this occasion to observe Jesus’ conduct at this unusual social gathering.
Kako je večera odmicala radost uzvanika sve je više rasla, dosegnuvši vrhunce vedrog raspoloženja i svi su uživali u druženju. Tada su farizeji koji su promatrali gozbu počeli u svojim srcima kritizirati Isusa zbog njegova sudjelovanja u takvom bezbrižnom i veselom druženju. Kasnije te večeri, dok su se držali govori, jedan od zlobnijih farizeja otišao je toliko daleko da je pred Petrom kritizirao Isusovo ponašanje govoreći: „Kako se usuđujete učiti da je ovaj čovjek pravedan kada jede s carinicima i grešnicima i tako svojom nazočnošću sudjeluje u ovakvim prizorima bezbrižnog uživanja?” Petar je šapnuo te riječi Isusu prije nego što je on izrekao oproštajni blagoslov okupljenima. Kad je Isus počeo govoriti, rekao je: „Došavši večeras ovamo kako bih poželio dobrodošlicu Mateju i Šimunu u naše zajedništvo, radujem se što svjedočim vašoj vedrini i društvenom veselju, ali još se više trebate radovati jer će mnogi od vas pronaći ulazak u nadolazeće kraljevstvo duha, u kojem ćete još obilnije uživati u dobrima nebeskog kraljevstva. A vama koji stojite uokolo i u svojim srcima me kritizirate zato što sam došao ovamo veseliti se s ovim prijateljima, kažem: došao sam navijestiti radost društveno potlačenima i duhovnu slobodu moralnim zatočenicima. Trebam li vas podsjetiti da zdravima nije potreban liječnik, nego bolesnima? Nisam došao pozvati pravednike, nego grešnike.”
138:3.6 (1540.9)
As the dinner progressed, the joy of the diners mounted to heights of good cheer, and everybody was having such a splendid time that the onlooking Pharisees began, in their hearts, to criticize Jesus for his participation in such a lighthearted and carefree affair. Later in the evening, when they were making speeches, one of the more malignant of the Pharisees went so far as to criticize Jesus’ conduct to Peter, saying: “How dare you to teach that this man is righteous when he eats with publicans and sinners and thus lends his presence to such scenes of careless pleasure making.” Peter whispered this criticism to Jesus before he spoke the parting blessing upon those assembled. When Jesus began to speak, he said: “In coming here tonight to welcome Matthew and Simon to our fellowship, I am glad to witness your lightheartedness and social good cheer, but you should rejoice still more because many of you will find entrance into the coming kingdom of the spirit, wherein you shall more abundantly enjoy the good things of the kingdom of heaven. And to you who stand about criticizing me in your hearts because I have come here to make merry with these friends, let me say that I have come to proclaim joy to the socially downtrodden and spiritual liberty to the moral captives. Need I remind you that they who are whole need not a physician, but rather those who are sick? I have come, not to call the righteous, but sinners.”
Bio je to doista neobičan prizor među Židovima: vidjeti čovjeka pravednog karaktera i plemenitih osjećaja kako se slobodno i radosno druži s običnim ljudima, čak i s mnoštvom carinika i onih koji su bili na glasu kao grešnici, nereligioznih ljudi sklonih užicima. Šimun Zelot želio je održati govor na ovom okupljanju u Matejevoj kući, ali ga je Andrija, znajući da Isus ne želi da se nadolazeće kraljevstvo pomiješa s pokretom zelota, nagovorio da se suzdrži od ikakvih javnih izjava.
138:3.7 (1541.1)
And truly this was a strange sight in all Jewry: to see a man of righteous character and noble sentiments mingling freely and joyously with the common people, even with an irreligious and pleasure-seeking throng of publicans and reputed sinners. Simon Zelotes desired to make a speech at this gathering in Matthew’s house, but Andrew, knowing that Jesus did not want the coming kingdom to become confused with the Zealots’ movement, prevailed upon him to refrain from making any public remarks.
Sutradan je devetorica krenula čamcem u Kheresu kako bi službeno pozvala sljedeću dvojicu apostola, Jakova i Judu, blizance i Alfejeve sinove, koje su odabrali Jakov i Ivan Zebedejevi. Braća blizanci, ribari, očekivali su Isusa i njegove apostole te su ih stoga čekali na obali. Jakov Zebedejev predstavio je Učitelja ribarima iz Kerese, a Isus ih je pogledavši kimnuo i rekao: „Slijedite me.”
138:4.1 (1541.3)
On the morrow all nine of them went by boat over to Kheresa to execute the formal calling of the next two apostles, James and Judas the twin sons of Alpheus, the nominees of James and John Zebedee. The fisherman twins were expecting Jesus and his apostles and were therefore awaiting them on the shore. James Zebedee presented the Master to the Kheresa fishermen, and Jesus, gazing on them, nodded and said, “Follow me.”
Tog poslijepodneva, koje su proveli zajedno, Isus ih je u potpunosti poučio o sudjelovanju na svečanim okupljanjima, zaključivši svoje izlaganje riječima: „Svi su ljudi moja braća. Moj Otac na nebu ne prezire nijedno stvorenje koje smo načinili. Nebesko kraljevstvo otvoreno je svim muškarcima i ženama. Nitko ne smije zatvoriti vrata milosrđa pred ijednom gladnom dušom koja želi ući u njih. Sjest ćemo za objed sa svima koji žele čuti o kraljevstvu. Kada naš Otac na nebu gleda na ljude, svi su oni jednaki. Stoga nemojte odbijati lomiti kruh ni s farizejem ni s grešnikom, ni sa saducejem ni s carinikom, ni s Rimljaninom ni sa Židovom, ni s bogatim ni sa siromašnim, ni sa slobodnim ni s robom. Vrata kraljevstva širom su otvorena za sve koji žele upoznati istinu i pronaći Boga.”
138:4.2 (1541.4)
That afternoon, which they spent together, Jesus fully instructed them concerning attendance upon festive gatherings, concluding his remarks by saying: “All men are my brothers. My Father in heaven does not despise any creature of our making. The kingdom of heaven is open to all men and women. No man may close the door of mercy in the face of any hungry soul who may seek to gain an entrance thereto. We will sit at meat with all who desire to hear of the kingdom. As our Father in heaven looks down upon men, they are all alike. Refuse not therefore to break bread with Pharisee or sinner, Sadducee or publican, Roman or Jew, rich or poor, free or bond. The door of the kingdom is wide open for all who desire to know the truth and to find God.”
Te su noći, tijekom jednostavne večere u Alfejevu domu, braća blizanci primljena u apostolsku obitelj. Kasnije te večeri Isus je dao svojim apostolima prvu lekciju o porijeklu, prirodi i sudbini nečistih duhova, ali oni nisu mogli razumjeti značenje onoga što im je govorio. Bilo im je vrlo lako voljeti i diviti se Isusu, ali im je bilo vrlo teško razumjeti mnoga njegova učenja.
138:4.3 (1541.5)
That night at a simple supper at the Alpheus home, the twin brothers were received into the apostolic family. Later in the evening Jesus gave his apostles their first lesson dealing with the origin, nature, and destiny of unclean spirits, but they could not comprehend the import of what he told them. They found it very easy to love and admire Jesus but very difficult to understand many of his teachings.
Ribar Toma i lutalica Juda susreli su Isusa i apostole na pristaništu za ribarske čamce u Taricheji, nakon čega je Toma poveo sve u svoju kuću koja se nalazila u blizini. Filip je tada predstavio Tomu kao svog kandidata za apostolsku službu, dok je Natanije predstavio Judu Iškariotskog, Judejca, za istu čast. Isus je pogledao Tomu i rekao: „Tomo, nedostaje ti vjere; ipak te primam. Slijedi me.” Judi Iškariotskom Učitelj je rekao: „Judo, svi smo od istog tijela i dok te primam među nas, molim se da uvijek budeš vjeran svojoj galilejskoj braći. Slijedi me.”
138:5.1 (1542.2)
Thomas the fisherman and Judas the wanderer met Jesus and the apostles at the fisher-boat landing at Tarichea, and Thomas led the party to his near-by home. Philip now presented Thomas as his nominee for apostleship and Nathaniel presented Judas Iscariot, the Judean, for similar honors. Jesus looked upon Thomas and said: “Thomas, you lack faith; nevertheless, I receive you. Follow me.” To Judas Iscariot the Master said: “Judas, we are all of one flesh, and as I receive you into our midst, I pray that you will always be loyal to your Galilean brethren. Follow me.”
Nakon što su se okrijepili, Isus je nakratko poveo dvanaestoricu nasamo kako bi se s njima molio i poučio ih o naravi i djelovanju Duha Svetoga, ali oni ponovno uglavnom nisu mogli shvatiti značenje onih izvanrednih istina kojima ih je nastojao poučiti. Jedan bi shvatio jednu pojedinost, a drugi drugu, ali nijedan nije mogao obuhvatiti cjelinu njegova učenja. Stalno su činili pogrešku pokušavajući uklopiti Isusovo novo evanđelje u stare oblike svojih religioznih vjerovanja. Nisu mogli shvatiti da je Isus došao navijestiti novo evanđelje spasenja i uspostaviti novi način pronalaženja Boga; nisu shvaćali da je on bio nova objava Oca na nebu.
138:5.2 (1542.3)
When they had refreshed themselves, Jesus took the twelve apart for a season to pray with them and to instruct them in the nature and work of the Holy Spirit, but again did they largely fail to comprehend the meaning of those wonderful truths which he endeavored to teach them. One would grasp one point and one would comprehend another, but none of them could encompass the whole of his teaching. Always would they make the mistake of trying to fit Jesus’ new gospel into their old forms of religious belief. They could not grasp the idea that Jesus had come to proclaim a new gospel of salvation and to establish a new way of finding God; they did not perceive that he was a new revelation of the Father in heaven.
Sljedećeg dana Isus je ostavio svojih dvanaest apostola same; želio je da se međusobno upoznaju i da budu sami kako bi razgovarali o onome čemu ih je poučio. Učitelj se vratio na večernji obrok, a tijekom sati nakon večere govorio im je o službi serafima, i neki su apostoli razumjeli njegovo učenje. Odmorili su se preko noći, a sljedećeg su dana otišli čamcem u Kafarnaum.
138:5.3 (1542.4)
The next day Jesus left his twelve apostles quite alone; he wanted them to become acquainted and desired that they be alone to talk over what he had taught them. The Master returned for the evening meal, and during the after-supper hours he talked to them about the ministry of seraphim, and some of the apostles comprehended his teaching. They rested for a night and the next day departed by boat for Capernaum.
Zebedej i Šaloma otišli su živjeti sa svojim sinom Davidom kako bi svoju veliku kuću prepustili Isusu i dvanaestorici apostola. Isus je ovdje proveo mirnu subotu sa svojim odabranim glasnicima; pažljivo im je predočio planove za promicanje kraljevstva te im je potanko objasnio važnost izbjegavanja svakog sukoba s građanskim vlastima, govoreći: „Ako građanske vlasti treba prekoriti, ostavite taj zadatak meni. Pazite da ne izričete nikakve osude protiv Cezara ili njegovih službenika.” Te iste večeri Juda je odveo Isusa na stranu kako bi ga upitao zašto se ništa ne čini da se Ivan oslobodi iz zatočeništva. Juda nije bio posve zadovoljan Isusovim stavom.
138:5.4 (1542.5)
Zebedee and Salome had gone to live with their son David so that their large home could be turned over to Jesus and his twelve apostles. Here Jesus spent a quiet Sabbath with his chosen messengers; he carefully outlined the plans for proclaiming the kingdom and fully explained the importance of avoiding any clash with the civil authorities, saying: “If the civil rulers are to be rebuked, leave that task to me. See that you make no denunciations of Caesar or his servants.” It was this same evening that Judas Iscariot took Jesus aside to inquire why nothing was done to get John out of prison. And Judas was not wholly satisfied with Jesus’ attitude.
Sljedeći je tjedan bio posvećen intenzivnoj obuci. Svakoga su dana šestorica novih apostola bila povjerena apostolima koji su ih predložili, kako bi temeljito ponovili sve što su naučili i doživjeli u pripremi za rad kraljevstva. Stariji su apostoli pažljivo pregledavali, radi dobrobiti mlađe šestorice, Isusova učenja sve do tog vremena. Navečer su se svi okupljali u Zebedejevom vrtu kako bi primili Isusove pouke.
138:6.1 (1542.6)
The next week was devoted to a program of intense training. Each day the six new apostles were put in the hands of their respective nominators for a thoroughgoing review of all they had learned and experienced in preparation for the work of the kingdom. The older apostles carefully reviewed, for the benefit of the younger six, Jesus’ teachings up to that hour. Evenings they all assembled in Zebedee’s garden to receive Jesus’ instruction.
U to je vrijeme Isus ustanovio slobodan dan sredinom tjedna za odmor i razonodu. Ovog su se plana opuštanja držali jedan dan svakoga tjedna tijekom ostatka njegova materijalnog života. Kao opće pravilo, nikada nisu obavljali svoje redovne aktivnosti srijedom. Toga bi se slobodnog dana Isus obično povukao od njih i rekao: „Moja djeco, neka ovo bude dan razonode. Odmorite se od napornih radova kraljevstva i uživajte u osvježenju koje dolazi od povratka vašim prijašnjim zanimanjima ili od otkrivanja novih oblika razonode.” Iako Isusu u ovom razdoblju njegova zemaljskog života zapravo nije bio potreban ovaj dan odmora, pridržavao se ovog plana jer je znao da je najbolji za njegove ljudske suradnike. Isus je bio učitelj — pravi Učitelj; njegovi suradnici bili su njegovi učenici.
138:6.2 (1542.7)
It was at this time that Jesus established the mid-week holiday for rest and recreation. And they pursued this plan of relaxation for one day each week throughout the remainder of his material life. As a general rule, they never prosecuted their regular activities on Wednesday. On this weekly holiday Jesus would usually take himself away from them, saying: “My children, go for a day of play. Rest yourselves from the arduous labors of the kingdom and enjoy the refreshment that comes from reverting to your former vocations or from discovering new sorts of recreational activity.” While Jesus, at this period of his earth life, did not actually require this day of rest, he conformed to this plan because he knew it was best for his human associates. Jesus was the teacher—the Master; his associates were his pupils—disciples.
Isus je nastojao svojim apostolima jasno predočiti razliku između svojih učenja i svojega života među njima te učenja koja bi kasnije mogla nastati o njemu. Isus je rekao: „Moje kraljevstvo i evanđelje koje je s njim povezano trebaju biti središte vaše poruke. Nemojte skrenuti s puta tako što ćete propovijedati o meni i mojim učenjima. Naviještajte evanđelje kraljevstva i predočite moje otkrivenje Oca na nebu, ali nemojte dopustiti da vas zavedu stranputice stvaranja legendi i izgradnje kulta koji bi se temeljio na vjerovanjima i učenjima o meni.” Ali oni ponovno nisu shvatili zašto im je tako govorio i nitko se nije usudio upitati zašto ih je tako poučavao.
138:6.3 (1543.1)
Jesus endeavored to make clear to his apostles the difference between his teachings and his life among them and the teachings which might subsequently spring up about him. Said Jesus: “My kingdom and the gospel related thereto shall be the burden of your message. Be not sidetracked into preaching about me and about my teachings. Proclaim the gospel of the kingdom and portray my revelation of the Father in heaven but do not be misled into the bypaths of creating legends and building up a cult having to do with beliefs and teachings about my beliefs and teachings.” But again they did not understand why he thus spoke, and no man dared to ask why he so taught them.
U ovim ranim učenjima Isus je nastojao, koliko god je bilo moguće, izbjeći rasprave sa svojim apostolima, osim kada se radilo o pogrešnim shvaćanjima o njegovom Ocu na nebu. U svim takvim pitanjima nikada nije oklijevao ispraviti pogrešna vjerovanja. U Isusovu životu nakon krštenja postojao je samo jedan motiv: bolje i istinitije otkrivenje njegova Rajskog Oca; on je utirao put novom i boljem pristupu Bogu, putu vjere i ljubavi. Njegova je stalna opomena apostolima bila: „Idite tražiti grešnike; pronađite potištene i utješite tjeskobne.”
138:6.4 (1543.2)
In these early teachings Jesus sought to avoid controversies with his apostles as far as possible excepting those involving wrong concepts of his Father in heaven. In all such matters he never hesitated to correct erroneous beliefs. There was just one motive in Jesus’ postbaptismal life on Urantia, and that was a better and truer revelation of his Paradise Father; he was the pioneer of the new and better way to God, the way of faith and love. Ever his exhortation to the apostles was: “Go seek for the sinners; find the downhearted and comfort the anxious.”
Isus je savršeno razumio situaciju; mogao je upotrijebiti svoje neograničene moći za ostvarenje svoje misije, ali je bio posve zadovoljan sredstvima i ličnostima koje bi većina ljudi smatrala neadekvatnima i beznačajnima. Bio je uključen u misiju golemih dramatičnih mogućnosti, ali je ustrajao u tome da poslove svoga Oca obavlja na najtiši i najnenametljiviji način; pomno je izbjegavao svako pokazivanje moći. Sada je planirao djelovati tiho, barem nekoliko mjeseci, sa svojih dvanaest apostola u okolici Genezaretskog jezera.
138:6.5 (1543.3)
Jesus had a perfect grasp of the situation; he possessed unlimited power, which might have been utilized in the furtherance of his mission, but he was wholly content with means and personalities which most people would have regarded as inadequate and would have looked upon as insignificant. He was engaged in a mission of enormous dramatic possibilities, but he insisted on going about his Father’s business in the most quiet and undramatic manner; he studiously avoided all display of power. And he now planned to work quietly, at least for several months, with his twelve apostles around about the Sea of Galilee.
Isus je imao u planu tihu misionarsku djelatnost koja se trebala sastojati od pet mjeseci osobnog rada. Nije govorio apostolima koliko će dugo to trajati; radili su iz tjedna u tjedan. Rano toga prvog dana u tjednu, upravo kad se spremao objaviti ovu odluku svojim dvanaestorici apostola, priđoše mu Šimun Petar, Jakov Zebedejev i Juda Iškariotski kako bi s njim nasamo razgovarali. Vodeći Isusa u stranu, Petar se odvažio reći: „Učitelju, dolazimo na poticaj naših suradnika pitati nije li sada došlo vrijeme da uđemo u kraljevstvo. Hoćeš li proglasiti kraljevstvo u Kafarnaumu ili trebamo nastaviti put prema Jeruzalemu? I kada ćemo, svaki od nas, saznati koje ćemo položaje zauzimati s tobom pri uspostavi kraljevstva.” Petar bi nastavio postavljati pitanja, ali Isus mu je dao znak upozorenja i zaustavio ga. Pozvavši ostale apostole koji su stajali u blizini da im se pridruže, Isus reče: „Dječice moja, koliko ću vas još morati podnositi! Zar vam nisam jasno rekao da moje kraljevstvo nije od ovoga svijeta? Mnogo sam vam puta rekao da nisam došao sjesti na Davidovo prijestolje, pa kako to da sada pitate koje će mjesto svaki od vas zauzeti u Očevu kraljevstvu? Zar ne možete shvatiti da sam vas pozvao kao poslanike duhovnog kraljevstva? Zar ne razumijete da ćete uskoro, vrlo uskoro, predstavljati mene u svijetu i u naviještanju kraljevstva, baš kao što ja sada predstavljam svoga Oca koji je na nebu? Zar je moguće da sam vas izabrao i poučio kao glasnike kraljevstva, a vi još uvijek ne shvaćate prirodu i značenje ovog dolazećeg kraljevstva božanske nadmoći u srcima ljudi? Prijatelji moji, poslušajte me još jednom. Izbacite iz svojih umova ovu predodžbu da je moje kraljevstvo vladavina moći ili vladavina slave. Istina je, sva će moć na nebu i na zemlji uskoro biti predana u moje ruke, ali nije Očeva volja da ovo božansko obdarenje koristimo za vlastito proslavljanje u ovom dobu. U nekom drugom dobu doista ćete sjediti sa mnom u moći i slavi, ali sada nam priliči podložiti se Očevoj volji i poći naprijed u poniznoj poslušnosti kako bismo izvršili njegov nalog na zemlji.”
138:7.1 (1543.4)
Jesus had planned for a quiet missionary campaign of five months’ personal work. He did not tell the apostles how long this was to last; they worked from week to week. And early on this first day of the week, just as he was about to announce this to his twelve apostles, Simon Peter, James Zebedee, and Judas Iscariot came to have private converse with him. Taking Jesus aside, Peter made bold to say: “Master, we come at the behest of our associates to inquire whether the time is not now ripe to enter into the kingdom. And will you proclaim the kingdom at Capernaum, or are we to move on to Jerusalem? And when shall we learn, each of us, the positions we are to occupy with you in the establishment of the kingdom—” and Peter would have gone on asking further questions, but Jesus raised an admonitory hand and stopped him. And beckoning the other apostles standing near by to join them, Jesus said: “My little children, how long shall I bear with you! Have I not made it plain to you that my kingdom is not of this world? I have told you many times that I have not come to sit on David’s throne, and now how is it that you are inquiring which place each of you will occupy in the Father’s kingdom? Can you not perceive that I have called you as ambassadors of a spiritual kingdom? Do you not understand that soon, very soon, you are to represent me in the world and in the proclamation of the kingdom, even as I now represent my Father who is in heaven? Can it be that I have chosen you and instructed you as messengers of the kingdom, and yet you do not comprehend the nature and significance of this coming kingdom of divine pre-eminence in the hearts of men? My friends, hear me once more. Banish from your minds this idea that my kingdom is a rule of power or a reign of glory. Indeed, all power in heaven and on earth will presently be given into my hands, but it is not the Father’s will that we use this divine endowment to glorify ourselves during this age. In another age you shall indeed sit with me in power and glory, but it behooves us now to submit to the will of the Father and to go forth in humble obedience to execute his bidding on earth.”
Njegovi su suradnici još jednom bili šokirani i zatečeni. Isus ih je poslao dvojicu po dvojicu da se mole i rekao im da se vrate k njemu u podne. Tog presudnog prijepodneva svaki je od njih pojedinačno nastojao pronaći Boga, a svaki je nastojao oraspoložiti i osnažiti svoga druga, te su se vratili k Isusu prema njegovim uputama.
138:7.2 (1544.1)
Once more were his associates shocked, stunned. Jesus sent them away two and two to pray, asking them to return to him at noontime. On this crucial forenoon they each sought to find God, and each endeavored to cheer and strengthen the other, and they returned to Jesus as he had bidden them.
Isus im je zatim ponovno govorio o Ivanovu dolasku, krštenju u Jordanu, svadbi u Kani, nedavnom izboru šestorice novih apostola i udaljavanju njegove vlastite braće od njega, upozoravajući ih da će neprijatelj kraljevstva također nastojati odvojiti ih od njega. Nakon ovog kratkog, ali ozbiljnog razgovora, apostoli su svi ustali pod Petrovim vodstvom kako bi izrazili svoju nepokolebljivu odanost Učitelju i obećali svoju postojanu vjernost kraljevstvu. Kako je Toma rekao: „Ovom dolazećem kraljevstvu, ma kakvo ono bilo i čak ako ga ne razumijem u potpunosti.” Svi su doista vjerovali u Isusa, premda nisu potpuno shvaćali njegova učenja.
138:7.3 (1544.2)
Jesus now recounted for them the coming of John, the baptism in the Jordan, the marriage feast at Cana, the recent choosing of the six, and the withdrawal from them of his own brothers in the flesh, and warned them that the enemy of the kingdom would seek also to draw them away. After this short but earnest talk the apostles all arose, under Peter’s leadership, to declare their undying devotion to their Master and to pledge their unswerving loyalty to the kingdom, as Thomas expressed it, “To this coming kingdom, no matter what it is and even if I do not fully understand it.” They all truly believed in Jesus, even though they did not fully comprehend his teaching.
Isus ih je tada upitao koliko novca imaju među sobom; također se raspitao kako su se namjeravali pobrinuti za svoje obitelji. Kada se pokazalo da jedva imaju dovoljno sredstava za vlastito uzdržavanje tijekom sljedeća dva tjedna, rekao je: „Nije Očeva volja da započnemo svoj rad na ovaj način. Ostat ćemo ovdje uz more dva tjedna i loviti ribu ili raditi što god naše ruke nađu za rad; a u međuvremenu ćete, pod vodstvom Andrije, prvog izabranog apostola, tako organizirati sami sebe da osigurate sve što je potrebno za vaš budući rad, kako za sadašnju osobnu službu tako i za vrijeme kada ću vas kasnije zarediti da propovijedate evanđelje i poučavate vjernike.” Sve su ih silno obradovale ove riječi; to je bio njihov prvi jasan i određen nagovještaj da je Isus kasnije namjeravao prijeći na odvažnije i opsežnije javno djelovanje.
138:7.4 (1544.3)
Jesus now asked them how much money they had among them; he also inquired as to what provision had been made for their families. When it developed that they had hardly sufficient funds to maintain themselves for two weeks, he said: “It is not the will of my Father that we begin our work in this way. We will remain here by the sea two weeks and fish or do whatever our hands find to do; and in the meantime, under the guidance of Andrew, the first chosen apostle, you shall so organize yourselves as to provide for everything needful in your future work, both for the present personal ministry and also when I shall subsequently ordain you to preach the gospel and instruct believers.” They were all greatly cheered by these words; this was their first clear-cut and positive intimation that Jesus designed later on to enter upon more aggressive and pretentious public efforts.
Apostoli su proveli ostatak dana usavršavajući svoju radnu organizaciju i dovršavajući pripreme za čamce i mreže, jer su odlučili posvetiti se ribarenju; većina ih je bila ribarima, a i Isus je bio iskusan mornar i ribar. Mnogi čamci koje su koristili narednih nekoliko godina bili su izrađeni Isusovim rukama. Bili su to dobri i pouzdani čamci.
138:7.5 (1544.4)
The apostles spent the remainder of the day perfecting their organization and completing arrangements for boats and nets for embarking on the morrow’s fishing as they had all decided to devote themselves to fishing; most of them had been fishermen, even Jesus was an experienced boatman and fisherman. Many of the boats which they used the next few years had been built by Jesus’ own hands. And they were good and trustworthy boats.
Isus im je rekao da se dva tjedna posvete ribarenju, dodajući: „A zatim ćete poći naprijed da postanete ribari ljudi.” Ribarili su u tri skupine, a Isus je svake noći išao s drugom grupom. Svi su toliko uživali u Isusovu društvu! Bio je dobar ribar, vedar suputnik i nadahnjujući prijatelj; što su više s njim radili, to su ga više voljeli. Matej je jednom prilikom rekao: „Što bolje razumiješ neke ljude, to im se manje diviš, ali kad se radi o ovom čovjeku, što ga manje shvaćam, to ga više volim.”
138:7.6 (1544.5)
Jesus enjoined them to devote themselves to fishing for two weeks, adding, “And then will you go forth to become fishers of men.” They fished in three groups, Jesus going out with a different group each night. And they all so much enjoyed Jesus! He was a good fisherman, a cheerful companion, and an inspiring friend; the more they worked with him, the more they loved him. Said Matthew one day: “The more you understand some people, the less you admire them, but of this man, even the less I comprehend him, the more I love him.”
138:7.7 (1545.1)
This plan of fishing two weeks and going out to do personal work in behalf of the kingdom for two weeks was followed for more than five months, even to the end of this year of {scaps{scaps{a.d.}scaps}scaps} 26, until after the cessation of those special persecutions which had been directed against John’s disciples subsequent to his imprisonment.
Nakon što su prodali dvotjedni ulov, Juda Iškariotski, koji je bio odabran za blagajnika dvanaestorice, podijelio je zajednička apostolska sredstva na šest jednakih dijelova, nakon što su prethodno bila izdvojena sredstva za uzdržavanje njihovih obitelji. Sredinom kolovoza 26. godine po Kr. krenuli su dvojica po dvojica na područja rada koja im je odredio Andrija. Prva dva tjedna Isus je radio s Andrijom i Petrom, druga dva s Jakovom i Ivanom, a zatim redom sa svakim od preostalih parova prema redoslijedu njihova izbora. Tako je imao priliku provesti određeno vrijeme sa svakim parom prije nego što ih je ponovno okupio za početak njihove javne službe.
138:8.1 (1545.2)
After disposing of the fish catches of two weeks, Judas Iscariot, the one chosen to act as treasurer of the twelve, divided the apostolic funds into six equal portions, funds for the care of dependent families having been already provided. And then near the middle of August, in the year {scaps{scaps{a.d.}scaps}scaps} 26, they went forth two and two to the fields of work assigned by Andrew. The first two weeks Jesus went out with Andrew and Peter, the second two weeks with James and John, and so on with the other couples in the order of their choosing. In this way he was able to go out at least once with each couple before he called them together for the beginning of their public ministry.
Svagdašnji su ljudi bili zadivljeni učenjima i službom Isusa i njegovih apostola. Rabini su dugo poučavali Židove da neuki ljudi ne mogu biti pobožni ni pravedni. Ali Isusovi su apostoli bili i pobožni i pravedni; ipak su s radošću bili neuki u pogledu mnogih rabinskih učenja i mudrosti ovoga svijeta.
138:8.7 (1545.8)
The common people marveled at the teaching and ministry of Jesus and his apostles. The rabbis had long taught the Jews that the ignorant could not be pious or righteous. But Jesus’ apostles were both pious and righteous; yet they were cheerfully ignorant of much of the learning of the rabbis and the wisdom of the world.
Isus je apostolima objasnio razliku između pokajanja povezanog s takozvanim dobrim djelima, kako su ga naučavali Židovi, i promjene uma putem vjere — novog rođenja — koje je zahtijevao kao uvjet ulaska u kraljevstvo. Poučio ih je da je vjera jedini uvjet za ulazak u Očevo kraljevstvo. Ivan ih je učio „pokajanju — bježanju od nadolazećeg gnjeva”. Isus ih je poučio: „Vjera je otvorena vrata ulaska u sadašnju, savršenu i vječnu ljubav Boga.” Isus nije govorio kao prorok, kao onaj koji je došao objaviti Božju riječ. Činilo se da je govorio o sebi kao nekome tko ima vlast. Isus je nastojao odvratiti njihov um od traženja čuda i usmjeriti ga prema pronalaženju stvarnog i osobnog iskustva u zadovoljstvu i sigurnosti prisutnosti Božjeg duha ljubavi i spasonosne milosti koji prebiva u čovjeku.
138:8.8 (1545.9)
Jesus made plain to his apostles the difference between the repentance of so-called good works as taught by the Jews and the change of mind by faith—the new birth—which he required as the price of admission to the kingdom. He taught his apostles that faith was the only requisite to entering the Father’s kingdom. John had taught them “repentance—to flee from the wrath to come.” Jesus taught, “Faith is the open door for entering into the present, perfect, and eternal love of God.” Jesus did not speak like a prophet, one who comes to declare the word of God. He seemed to speak of himself as one having authority. Jesus sought to divert their minds from miracle seeking to the finding of a real and personal experience in the satisfaction and assurance of the indwelling of God’s spirit of love and saving grace.
Učenici su rano naučili da je Učitelj imao duboko poštovanje i suosjećajnu pažnju prema svakom ljudskom biću koje bi susreo, te su bili silno zadivljeni ovim univerzalnim i nepokolebljivim obzirom koji je tako dosljedno iskazivao svim muškarcima, ženama i djeci. Znao bi zastati usred dubokog govora kako bi izašao na put i uputio riječi ohrabrenja ženi opterećenoj tjelesnim i duševnim bremenom. Prekinuo bi ozbiljan razgovor sa svojim apostolima kako bi se družio s djetetom koje bi ih prekinulo. Ništa Isusu nije izgledalo važnije od pojedinog ljudskog bića koje se slučajno našlo u njegovoj neposrednoj blizini. Bio je učitelj i vođa, ali bio je i više od toga — bio je također prijatelj i susjed, razumijevajući drug.
138:8.9 (1545.10)
The disciples early learned that the Master had a profound respect and sympathetic regard for every human being he met, and they were tremendously impressed by this uniform and unvarying consideration which he so consistently gave to all sorts of men, women, and children. He would pause in the midst of a profound discourse that he might go out in the road to speak good cheer to a passing woman laden with her burden of body and soul. He would interrupt a serious conference with his apostles to fraternize with an intruding child. Nothing ever seemed so important to Jesus as the individual human who chanced to be in his immediate presence. He was master and teacher, but he was more—he was also a friend and neighbor, an understanding comrade.
Iako se ova pomalo monotona smjena ribarenja i osobnog rada pokazala vrlo napornim razdobljem u životu dvanaestorice apostola, oni su ipak izdržali ovu kušnju. Unatoč svim svojim gunđanjima, sumnjama i prolaznim nezadovoljstvima, ostali su vjerni zavjetima odanosti i privrženosti koje su dali svome Učitelju. Upravo ih je njihov osobni odnos s Isusom tijekom ovih mjeseci kušnje toliko vezao uz njega da su mu svi (izuzev Jude Iskariotskog) ostali vjerni i odani čak i u mračnim časovima kušnje i raspeća. Pravi čovjek jednostavno nije mogao napustiti tako poštovanog učitelja koji je tako blisko živio uz njega i koji mu je bio tako odan kao što je to bio Isus. Tijekom mračnih časova Učiteljeve smrti, u srcima ovih apostola razum, prosudba i logika ustupili su mjesto samo jednoj izvanrednoj ljudskoj emociji — najuzvišenijem osjećaju prijateljske odanosti. Ovih pet mjeseci rada s Isusom navelo je svakog od ovih apostola da ga smatra svojim najboljim prijateljem na cijelom svijetu. I upravo je taj ljudski osjećaj, a ne njegova izvanredna učenja ili veličanstvena djela, držao ih na okupu sve do nakon uskrsnuća i ponovnog proglašenja evanđelja kraljevstva.
138:9.1 (1546.3)
This somewhat monotonous period of alternate fishing and personal work proved to be a grueling experience for the twelve apostles, but they endured the test. With all of their grumblings, doubts, and transient dissatisfactions they remained true to their vows of devotion and loyalty to the Master. It was their personal association with Jesus during these months of testing that so endeared him to them that they all (save Judas Iscariot) remained loyal and true to him even in the dark hours of the trial and crucifixion. Real men simply could not actually desert a revered teacher who had lived so close to them and had been so devoted to them as had Jesus. Through the dark hours of the Master’s death, in the hearts of these apostles all reason, judgment, and logic were set aside in deference to just one extraordinary human emotion—the supreme sentiment of friendship-loyalty. These five months of work with Jesus led these apostles, each one of them, to regard him as the best friend he had in all the world. And it was this human sentiment, and not his superb teachings or marvelous doings, that held them together until after the resurrection and the renewal of the proclamation of the gospel of the kingdom.
Ne samo da su ovi mjeseci tihog rada bili velika kušnja za apostole, kušnja koju su izdržali, nego je ovo razdoblje javne neaktivnosti bilo i veliko iskušenje za Isusovu obitelj. U vrijeme kad je Isus bio spreman započeti svoj javni rad, cijela ga je obitelj (izuzev Rute) praktično napustila. Samo su u nekoliko navrata pokušali ponovno stupiti u kontakt s njim, i to kako bi ga nagovorili da se vrati kući, jer su gotovo počeli vjerovati da je izgubio razum. Jednostavno nisu mogli proniknuti u njegovu filozofiju niti shvatiti njegova učenja; sve je to bilo previše za one koji su mu bili najbliži po rođenju.
138:9.2 (1546.4)
Not only were these months of quiet work a great test to the apostles, a test which they survived, but this season of public inactivity was a great trial to Jesus’ family. By the time Jesus was prepared to launch forth on his public work, his entire family (except Ruth) had practically deserted him. On only a few occasions did they attempt to make subsequent contact with him, and then it was to persuade him to return home with them, for they came near to believing that he was beside himself. They simply could not fathom his philosophy nor grasp his teaching; it was all too much for those of his own flesh and blood.
Apostoli su nastavili s osobnim radom u Kafarnaumu, Betsaidi-Juliji, Korozainu, Gerasi, Hiposu, Magdali, Kani, Betlehemu Galilejskom, Jotapati, Rami, Safedu, Gišali, Gadari i Abili. Osim ovih gradova, radili su i u mnogim selima. Pred kraj ovog razdoblja apostoli su izradili prilično zadovoljavajuće planove za brigu o svojim obiteljima. Većina ih je bila oženjena, a neki su imali i više djece, ali su se tako pobrinuli za uzdržavanje svojih obitelji da su, uz manju pomoć iz apostolske riznice, mogli posvetiti svu svoju energiju Učiteljevom radu bez brige o financijskom blagostanju svojih obitelji.
138:9.3 (1546.5)
The apostles carried on their personal work in Capernaum, Bethsaida-Julias, Chorazin, Gerasa, Hippos, Magdala, Cana, Bethlehem of Galilee, Jotapata, Ramah, Safed, Gischala, Gadara, and Abila. Besides these towns they labored in many villages as well as in the countryside. By the end of this period the twelve had worked out fairly satisfactory plans for the care of their respective families. Most of the apostles were married, some had several children, but they had made such arrangements for the support of their home folks that, with some little assistance from the apostolic funds, they could devote their entire energies to the Master’s work without having to worry about the financial welfare of their families.
5. Matej je bio financijski upravitelj apostolske skupine. Njegova je dužnost bila pobrinuti se da proračun bude uravnotežen i da se riznica ponovno napuni. Ako sredstva za zajedničko uzdržavanje ne bi pristizala, odnosno ako ne bi bilo dovoljno darova za uzdržavanje skupine, Matej je imao ovlast vratiti dvanaestoricu njihovim ribarskim mrežama na neko vrijeme. Ali nakon što su započeli svoj javni rad, to nikada više nije bilo potrebno; uvijek je bilo dovoljno sredstava u rukama blagajnika za financiranje njihovih aktivnosti.
138:10.6 (1547.6)
5. Matthew was the fiscal agent of the apostolic corps. It was his duty to see that the budget was balanced, the treasury replenished. If the funds for mutual support were not forthcoming, if donations sufficient to maintain the party were not received, Matthew was empowered to order the twelve back to their nets for a season. But this was never necessary after they began their public work; he always had sufficient funds in the treasurer’s hands to finance their activities.
Na ovaj su način dvanaestorica apostola djelovali od svoje rane organizacije pa sve do vremena kada je napuštanje Jude, izdajnika, stvorilo potrebu za reorganizacijom. Učitelj i njegovi učenici-apostoli nastavili su ovim jednostavnim načinom sve do nedjelje, 12. siječnja 27. godine po Kr., kada ih je Isus pozvao i službeno zaredio kao poslanike kraljevstva i propovjednike radosnih vijesti. Ubrzo nakon toga pripremili su se krenuti prema Jeruzalemu i Judeji na svoje prvo javno propovjedničko putovanje.
138:10.11 (1547.11)
In this way the twelve functioned from their early organization up to the time of the reorganization made necessary by the desertion of Judas, the betrayer. The Master and his disciple-apostles went on in this simple manner until Sunday, January 12, {scaps{scaps{a.d.}scaps}scaps} 27, when he called them together and formally ordained them as ambassadors of the kingdom and preachers of its glad tidings. And soon thereafter they prepared to start for Jerusalem and Judea on their first public preaching tour.