Different Strokes For Different Folks

Different Strokes For Different Folks

We tried to stop him, because he was not one of us! Lk 9:49

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Luke 9:49-50 (NIV)
⁴⁹ "Master," said John, "we saw a man driving out demons in your name and we tried to stop him, because he is not one of us." ⁵⁰ "Do not stop him," Jesus said, "for whoever is not against you is for you."

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Because of my involvement in a Christian ministry that strives to be
trans-denominational, I have had the privilege of worshipping within a wide variety of
formats. I remember several occasions when I visited congregations that were entirely
foreign to me. I also remember being thrilled as I met individuals who were serious in
their desire to follow Jesus and honour God in their lives. Apparently, not all
disciples of Jesus take exactly the same life journey.

In the account recorded in Luke, we find that the disciples have come across someone
who has obviously been influenced by Jesus. He was not one of the twelve disciples,
and yet he was aligning himself as being on the side of Jesus and was successfully
“driving out demons.” (Lk 9:49) It can be hard for us to embrace others who differ
with us in some points, while understanding that we do not have to compromise what
we hold to be dear. It seems that we often revert to our old ways and seek to establish
our credibility by attacking or forbidding others who are not identified with us.

In this simple, uncluttered account of just two sentences, Jesus drives home the
foundation principle. It is a person’s commitment to the leadership of Jesus that is the
only basis for credibility as a Christian. Teachers of today are not unlike teachers in
Jesus’ time; they add or elevate many observances beyond the requirements of God.
We often emphasize details that identify our distinctiveness; details that, while
significant, are not a basis for refusing to embrace other Christians.

The activity of this man was obviously intended to honour Jesus. His ‘ministry’ did not
affect the relationship that the twelve disciples had with Jesus. Jesus was interested in
strengthening and encouraging His disciples and this newly discovered follower.

People have a variety of ‘love languages,’ meaning that people are sensitive to a
variety of initiatives that touch their hearts. Some appreciate quiet words, others
flowers. Some people respond best to a hug, while others need space.

It is helpful to know that people are different and are influenced in different ways.
It is wise, if like Jesus, we can embrace the various needs of others and make

allowances for the various routes to addressing these needs without feeling
threatened or in need of conforming everyone else to our own behaviours.
The Scriptures contain our guidance.

God help me to trust You as You lead me and as You lead others. May I accept that
different folk need different approaches. Heavenly Father, may You, through the
Holy Spirit, bless everyone who has the desire to follow Jesus and may
I be used to encourage them.

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Heavenly Father, help me to appreciate people who seem to be wired up differently
than I am. I know that the beauty of Your church includes our glorious variety as we
are drawn together while following Jesus. Help me to use this understanding
to affect how I relate to others. Amen.

- Noel Churchman

Noel was the Executive Director of Christian Horizons form 1976 to 2001. The devotionals we will be using are from a book he wrote in 2005 called “Walking with God”. Noel’s reflections are grounded in his experiences as an educator, and provider of supports for individuals with exceptional needs as well as his life as a dedicated follower of Christ.