Kapitel 138		Paper 138
Træningen Af Rigets Budbringere		Training the Kingdom’s Messengers
138:0.1 (1538.1) EFTER at have holdt prædikenen om “Riget” kaldte Jesus de seks apostle sammen den eftermiddag og begyndte at afsløre sine planer om at besøge byerne omkring Galilæas Sø. Hans brødre James og Jude var meget sårede, fordi de ikke var blevet kaldt til denne konference. Indtil da havde de anset sig selv for at tilhøre Jesu inderkreds af medarbejdere. Men Jesus planlagde ikke at have nogen nære slægtninge som medlemmer af dette korps af apostoliske ledere af riget. Denne undladelse af at inkludere James og Jude blandt de få udvalgte, sammen med hans tilsyneladende afstandtagen fra sin mor lige siden oplevelsen i Kana, var udgangspunktet for en stadig større kløft mellem Jesus og hans familie. Denne situation fortsatte gennem hele hans offentlige virke—de var meget tæt på at afvise ham—og disse forskelle blev ikke helt fjernet før efter hans død og opstandelse. Hans mor vaklede konstant mellem holdninger af svingende tro og håb og stigende følelser af skuffelse, ydmygelse og fortvivlelse. Kun Ruth, den yngste, forblev urokkeligt loyal over for sin far-bror.		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.
138:0.2 (1538.2) Indtil efter opstandelsen havde hele Jesu familie meget lidt at gøre med hans tjeneste. Hvis en profet ikke er uden ære undtagen i sit eget land, er han ikke uden forståelse undtagen i sin egen familie.		138:0.2 (1538.2) Until after the resurrection, Jesus’ entire family had very little to do with his ministry. If a prophet is not without honor save in his own country, he is not without understanding appreciation save in his own family.
1. De sidste instruktioner ^top		1. Final Instructions ^top
138:1.1 (1538.3) Den næste dag, søndag den 23. juni år 26 e.Kr., gav Jesus sine sidste instruktioner til de seks. Han bad dem om at gå ud to og to for at forkynde det glade budskab om riget. Han forbød dem at døbe og frarådede offentlig forkyndelse. Han fortsatte med at forklare, at han senere ville tillade dem at prædike offentligt, men at han i en periode og af mange grunde ønskede, at de skulle få praktisk erfaring med at omgås deres medmennesker personligt. Jesus havde til hensigt at gøre deres første tur helt og holdent til personligt arbejde. Selvom denne meddelelse var noget af en skuffelse for apostlene, så de alligevel, i det mindste delvist, Jesu grund til at begynde proklamationen af riget på denne måde, og de startede af et godt hjerte og med tillidsfuld entusiasme. Han sendte dem af sted to og to, James og Johannes til Kheresa, Andrew og Peter til Kapernaum, mens Philip og Nathaniel tog til Tarikea.		138:1.1 (1538.3) The next day, Sunday, June 23, a.d. 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.
138:1.2 (1538.4) Før de begyndte de første to ugers tjeneste, meddelte Jesus dem, at han ønskede at ordinere tolv apostle til at fortsætte arbejdet i riget efter sin afgang, og han bemyndigede hver af dem til at vælge en mand blandt sine tidlige konvertitter til medlemskab af det planlagte apostelkorps. Johannes tog ordet og spurgte: “Men Mester, vil disse seks mænd komme ind i vores midte og dele alle ting ligeligt med os, der har været sammen med dig siden Jordan og har hørt al din undervisning som forberedelse til dette, vores første arbejde for riget?” Og Jesus svarede: “Ja, Johannes, de mænd, du vælger, skal blive ét med os, og du skal lære dem alt, hvad der hører riget til, ligesom jeg har lært dig.” Efter at have talt sådan forlod Jesus dem.		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.
138:1.3 (1539.1) De seks skiltes ikke for at gå til deres arbejde, før de havde udvekslet mange ord i diskussionen om Jesu instruktion om, at hver af dem skulle vælge en ny apostel. Andreas’ råd sejrede til sidst, og de gik i gang med deres arbejde. Andreas sagde i al væsentlighed: “Mesteren har ret; vi er for få til at udføre dette arbejde. Der er brug for flere lærere, og Mesteren har vist os stor tillid, idet han har betroet os at vælge disse seks nye apostle.” Denne morgen, da de skiltes for at gå til deres arbejde, var der en smule skjult depression i hvert hjerte. De vidste, at de ville komme til at savne Jesus, og ud over deres frygt og frygtsomhed var det ikke sådan, de havde forestillet sig, at Himmeriget ville blive indviet.		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.
138:1.4 (1539.2) Det blev aftalt, at de seks skulle arbejde i to uger og derefter vende tilbage til Zebedæus hjem til et møde. Imens gik Jesus over til Nazaret for at besøge Joseph, Simon og andre familiemedlemmer, der boede i nabolaget. Jesus gjorde alt, hvad der var menneskeligt muligt, og det var i overensstemmelse med hans dedikation til at gøre Faderens vilje, for at bevare sin families tillid og hengivenhed. I denne forbindelse gjorde han sin fulde pligt og mere.		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.
138:1.5 (1539.3) Mens apostlene var ud på denne mission, tænkte Jesus meget på Johannes, der nu var i fængsel. Det var en stor fristelse for ham at bruge sine potentielle beføjelser til at frigive Johannes, men igen, han holdt sig til “vente på Faderens vilje.”		138:1.5 (1539.3) While the apostles were out on this mission, Jesus thought much about John, now in prison. It was a great temptation to use his potential powers to release him, but once more he resigned himself to “wait upon the Father’s will.”
2. Valget af de seks apostle ^top		2. Choosing the Six ^top
138:2.1 (1539.4) Denne første missionstur for de seks var en stor succes. De opdagede alle den store værdi af direkte og personlig kontakt med mennesker. De vendte tilbage til Jesus i en større erkendelse af, at religion, når alt kommer til alt, er et rent og skært spørgsmål om personlig erfaring. De begyndte at fornemme, hvor sultne de almindelige mennesker var efter at høre ord om religiøs trøst og åndeligt godt humør. Da de samledes om Jesus, ville de alle tale med det samme, men Andreas overtog ledelsen, og mens han kaldte på dem en efter en, aflagde de deres formelle rapport til Mesteren og præsenterede deres nomineringer til de seks nye apostle.		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.
138:2.2 (1539.5) Efter at hver mand havde præsenteret sit valg til de nye apostelembeder, bad Jesus alle de andre om at stemme om nomineringen; således blev alle seks af de nye apostle formelt accepteret af alle de seks ældre. Derefter meddelte Jesus, at de alle ville besøge disse kandidater og give dem kaldet til tjeneste.		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.
138:2.3 (1539.6) De nyligt udvalgte apostle var:		138:2.3 (1539.6) The newly selected apostles were:
138:2.4 (1539.7) 1. Mattæus Levi, toldopkræver fra Kapernaum, som havde sit kontor lige øst for byen, nær grænsen til Batanea. Han blev udvalgt af Andreas.		138:2.4 (1539.7) 1. Matthew Levi, the customs collector of Capernaum, who had his office just to the east of the city, near the borders of Batanea. He was selected by Andrew.
138:2.5 (1539.8) 2. Thomas Didymus, en fisker fra Tarikea og tidligere tømrer og stenhugger i Gadara. Han blev udvalgt af Filip.		138:2.5 (1539.8) 2. Thomas Didymus, a fisherman of Tarichea and onetime carpenter and stone mason of Gadara. He was selected by Philip.
138:2.6 (1539.9) 3. James Alpheus, en fisker og landmand fra Kheresa; Han blev udvalgt af James Zebedæus.		138:2.6 (1539.9) 3. James Alpheus, a fisherman and farmer of Kheresa, was selected by James Zebedee.
138:2.7 (1539.10) 4. Judas Alpheus, tvillingebror til James Alpheus, også en fisker, blev udvalgt af Johannes Zebedæus.		138:2.7 (1539.10) 4. Judas Alpheus, the twin brother of James Alpheus, also a fisherman, was selected by John Zebedee.
138:2.8 (1540.1) 5. Simon Zelotes var en høj officer i zeloternes patriotiske organisation, en position, som han opgav for at slutte sig til Jesu apostle. Før han sluttede sig til zeloterne, havde Simon været købmand. Han blev udvalgt af Peter.		138:2.8 (1540.1) 5. Simon Zelotes was a high officer in the patriotic organization of the Zealots, a position which he gave up to join Jesus’ apostles. Before joining the Zealots, Simon had been a merchant. He was selected by Peter.
138:2.9 (1540.2) 6. Judas Iskariot var eneste søn af velhavende jødiske forældre, der boede i Jeriko. Han var blevet knyttet til Johannes Døberen, og hans saddukæiske forældre havde slået hånden af ham. Han ledte efter arbejde i disse egne, da Jesu apostle fandt ham, og hovedsageligt på grund af hans erfaring med økonomi inviterede Nathaniel ham til at slutte sig til dem. Judas Iskariot var den eneste jøde blandt de tolv apostle.		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.
138:2.10 (1540.3) Jesus tilbragte en hel dag sammen med de seks, besvarede deres spørgsmål og lyttede til detaljerne i deres beretninger, for de havde mange interessante og udbytterige oplevelser at fortælle. De så nu visdommen i Mesterens plan om at sende dem ud for at arbejde på en stille og personlig måde, før de gik i gang med deres mere prætentiøse offentlige indsats.		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.
3. Udnævnelsen af mattæus og simon ^top		3. The Call of Matthew and Simon ^top
138:3.1 (1540.4) Den næste dag gik Jesus og de seks hen for at besøge Mattæus, toldopkræveren. Mattæus ventede på dem efter at have gjort regnskabet op og gjort klar til at overdrage sit embede til sin bror. Da de nærmede sig toldboden, trådte Andreas frem sammen med Jesus, som så ind i Mattæus’ ansigt og sagde: “Følg mig.” Og han rejste sig og gik hjem til sit hus sammen med Jesus og apostlene.		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.
138:3.2 (1540.5) Mattæus fortalte Jesus om den banket, han havde arrangeret til den aften, i hvert fald at han ønskede at give en sådan middag til sin familie og sine venner, hvis Jesus ville godkende det og indvillige i at være æresgæst. Og Jesus nikkede ja. Peter tog derefter Mattæus til side og forklarede, at han havde inviteret en Simon til at slutte sig til apostlene og sikret sig hans samtykke til, at Simon også blev budt til denne fest.		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) Efter en middag i Mattæus’ hus tog de alle sammen med Peter hen for at besøge Simon Zeloten, som de fandt på hans gamle forretningssted, der nu blev drevet af hans nevø. Da Peter førte Jesus op til Simon, hilste Mesteren på den iltre patriot og sagde blot: “Følg mig.”		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) De vendte alle tilbage til Mattæus’ hjem, hvor de talte meget om politik og religion indtil aftensmåltidet. Levis familie havde længe været involveret i forretninger og skatteopkrævning, og derfor ville mange af de gæster, Mattæus indbød til denne banket, være blevet betegnet som “toldere og syndere” af farisæerne.		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.
138:3.5 (1540.8) På den tid, hvor en fremtrædende person blev budt på en sådan festmiddag, var det skik, at alle interesserede blev hængende i festlokalet for at iagttage gæsterne, mens de spiste, og for at lytte til æresmændenes samtaler og taler. Derfor var de fleste af Kapernaums farisæere til stede ved denne lejlighed for at observere Jesu opførsel ved denne usædvanlige sociale sammenkomst.		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.
138:3.6 (1540.9) Som middagen skred frem, steg glæden blandt de spisende til nye højder, og alle havde det så fantastisk, at farisæerne, der så på, i deres hjerter begyndte at kritisere Jesus for hans deltagelse i en så let og ubekymret affære. Senere på aftenen, da de holdt taler, gik en af de mere ondskabsfulde farisæere så vidt som til at kritisere Jesu opførsel over for Peter og sagde: “Hvor vover du at lære, at denne mand er retfærdig, når han spiser med toldere og syndere og dermed låner sin tilstedeværelse til sådanne scener af skødesløs fornøjelse.” Peter hviskede denne kritik til Jesus, før han udtalte afskedsvelsignelsen over de forsamlede. Da Jesus begyndte at tale, sagde han: “Når jeg kommer her i aften for at byde Mattæus og Simon velkommen til vores fællesskab, er jeg glad for at være vidne til jeres lethed og sociale gode humør, men I bør glæde jer endnu mere, fordi mange af jer vil finde adgang til det kommende åndens rige, hvor I i højere grad skal nyde de gode ting i Himmeriget. Og til jer, der står og kritiserer mig i jeres hjerter, fordi jeg er kommet her for at more mig med disse venner, så lad mig sige, at jeg er kommet for at forkynde glæde for de socialt undertrykte og åndelig frihed for de moralske fanger. Behøver jeg at minde jer om, at de, der er raske, ikke har brug for en læge, men snarere de, der er syge? Jeg er ikke kommet for at kalde de retfærdige, men synderne.”		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.”
138:3.7 (1541.1) Og det var i sandhed et mærkeligt syn i hele jødedommen: at se en mand med en retfærdig karakter og ædle følelser blande sig frit og frejdigt med almindelige mennesker, selv med en irreligiøs og nydelsessyg skare af toldere og påståede syndere. Simon Zelotes ønskede at holde en tale ved denne sammenkomst i Mattæus’ hus, men Andreas, som vidste, at Jesus ikke ønskede, at det kommende rige skulle blive forvekslet med zeloternes bevægelse, overtalte ham til at afholde sig fra at komme med nogen offentlige bemærkninger.		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.
138:3.8 (1541.2) Jesus og apostlene blev den aften i Mattæus’ hus, og da folk gik hjem, talte de kun om én ting: Jesu godhed og venlighed.		138:3.8 (1541.2) Jesus and the apostles remained that night in Matthew’s house, and as the people went to their homes, they spoke of but one thing: the goodness and friendliness of Jesus.
4. Udnævnelsen af tvillingerne ^top		4. The Call of the Twins ^top
138:4.1 (1541.3) Om morgenen tog de alle ni med båd over til Kheresa for at udføre den formelle kaldelse af de næste to apostle, James og Judas, tvillingesønner af Alpheus, de nominerede af James og Johannes Zebedæus. Fisker-tvillingerne ventede Jesus og hans apostle og stod derfor og ventede på dem på stranden. James Zebedæus præsenterede Mesteren for fiskerne fra Kheresa, og Jesus så på dem, nikkede og sagde: “Følg mig.”		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.”
138:4.2 (1541.4) Den eftermiddag, som de tilbragte sammen, instruerede Jesus dem fuldt ud om at deltage i festlige sammenkomster og afsluttede sine bemærkninger med at sige: “Alle mennesker er mine brødre. Min Far i himlen foragter ikke noget væsen, vi har skabt. Himmeriget er åbent for alle mænd og kvinder. Intet menneske kan lukke barmhjertighedens dør for enhver sulten sjæl, der søger at få adgang til den. Vi vil sidde til bords med alle, der ønsker at høre om riget. Som vores Fader i himlen ser ned på mennesker, er de alle ens. Nægt derfor ikke at bryde brød med farisæer eller syndere, saddukæere eller toldere, romere eller jøder, rige eller fattige, frie eller trælle. Rigets dør er vidt åben for alle, der ønsker at kende sandheden og finde Gud.”		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.”
138:4.3 (1541.5) Den aften blev tvillingebrødrene optaget i den apostoliske familie ved et simpelt aftensmåltid i Alpheus’ hjem. Senere på aftenen gav Jesus sine apostle deres første lektion, der handlede om de urene ånders oprindelse, natur og skæbne, men de kunne ikke forstå betydningen af det, han fortalte dem. De fandt det meget let at elske og beundre Jesus, men meget svært at forstå mange af hans læresætninger.		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.
138:4.4 (1542.1) Efter en nats hvile tog hele gruppen, der nu talte elleve personer, med båd over til Tarikea.		138:4.4 (1542.1) After a night of rest the entire party, now numbering eleven, went by boat over to Tarichea.
5. Udnævnelsen af Thomas og Judas ^top		5. The Call of Thomas and Judas ^top
138:5.1 (1542.2) Fiskeren Thomas og vandringsmanden Judas mødte Jesus og apostlene ved fiskerbådens landingsplads i Tarikea, og Thomas førte gruppen til sit hjem i nærheden. Filip præsenterede nu Thomas som sin kandidat til apostelembedet, og Nathaniel præsenterede Judas Iskariot, judæeren, til en lignende ære. Jesus så på Thomas og sagde: “Thomas, du mangler tro, men alligevel tager jeg imod dig. Følg mig.” Til Judas Iskariot sagde Mesteren: “Judas, vi er alle af ét kød, og når jeg modtager dig i vores midte, beder jeg om, at du altid vil være loyal over for dine galilæiske brødre. Følg mig.”		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.”
138:5.2 (1542.3) Da de havde forfrisket sig, tog Jesus de tolv til side i en periode for at bede med dem og undervise dem i Helligåndens natur og virke, men igen forstod de stort set ikke betydningen af de vidunderlige sandheder, som han forsøgte at lære dem. En ville forstå et punkt, og en ville forstå et andet, men ingen af dem kunne rumme hele hans undervisning. De begik altid den fejl at forsøge at passe Jesu nye evangelium ind i deres gamle religiøse trosformer. De kunne ikke fatte, at Jesus var kommet for at forkynde et nyt evangelium om frelse og for at etablere en ny måde at finde Gud på; de opfattede ikke, at han var en ny åbenbaring af Faderen i himlen.		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.
138:5.3 (1542.4) Den næste dag lod Jesus sine tolv apostle være helt alene; han ønskede, at de skulle lære hinanden at kende, og at de skulle være alene for at tale om det, han havde lært dem. Mesteren vendte tilbage til aftensmåltidet, og i løbet af de efterfølgende timer talte han med dem om serafernes tjeneste, og nogle af apostlene forstod hans lære. De hvilede sig en nat, og næste dag tog de af sted med båd til Kapernaum.		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.
138:5.4 (1542.5) Zebedæus og Salome var taget hen for at bo hos deres søn David, så deres store hjem kunne overdrages til Jesus og hans tolv apostle. Her tilbragte Jesus en stille sabbat med sine udvalgte budbringere; han skitserede omhyggeligt planerne for at forkynde riget og forklarede fuldt ud vigtigheden af at undgå ethvert sammenstød med de civile myndigheder, idet han sagde: “Hvis de civile magthavere skal irettesættes, så overlad den opgave til mig. Sørg for, at I ikke kritiserer kejseren eller hans tjenere.” Det var den samme aften, at Judas Iskariot tog Jesus til side for at spørge, hvorfor der ikke blev gjort noget for at få Johannes ud af fængslet. Og Judas var ikke helt tilfreds med Jesu holdning.		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.
6. En uge af intensiv uddannelse ^top		6. The Week of Intensive Training ^top
138:6.1 (1542.6) Den næste uge var afsat til et program med intens træning. Hver dag blev de seks nye apostle lagt i hænderne på deres respektive udnævnere til en grundig gennemgang af alt, hvad de havde lært og oplevet som forberedelse til arbejdet i riget. De ældre apostle gennemgik omhyggeligt, til gavn for de seks yngre, Jesu lære indtil da. Om aftenen samledes de alle i Zebedæus’ have for at modtage Jesu undervisning.		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.
138:6.2 (1542.7) Det var på dette tidspunkt, at Jesus indførte en helligdag midt på ugen til hvile og rekreation. Og de fulgte denne plan om afslapning en dag hver uge i resten af hans materielle liv. Som en generel regel fortsatte de aldrig deres almindelige aktiviteter om onsdagen. På denne ugentlige helligdag tog Jesus som regel væk fra dem og sagde: “Mine børn, gå ud og leg en dag. Hvil jer fra det hårde arbejde i riget og nyd den forfriskning, der kommer af at vende tilbage til jeres tidligere kald eller af at opdage nye former for fritidsaktiviteter.” Selvom Jesus i denne periode af sit jordiske liv faktisk ikke krævede denne hviledag, rettede han sig efter denne plan, fordi han vidste, at det var bedst for hans menneskelige medarbejdere. Jesus var læreren—Mesteren; hans medarbejdere var hans elever—disciple.		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.
138:6.3 (1543.1) Jesus bestræbte sig på at gøre det klart for sine apostle forskellen mellem hans lære og hans liv blandt dem og de lærdomme, som senere kunne tænkes at opstå om ham. Jesus sagde: “Mit rige og evangeliet i forbindelse hermed skal være det vigtigste indhold af jeres budskab. Forvild jer ikke ud på et sidespor ved at prædike om mig og om min undervisning. At forkynde evangeliet om riget, og beret om min åbenbaring af Faderen i himlen, men bliv ikke vildledt ind på afveje hvilket betyder at skabe legender og opbygge en kult relaterede tro og lærdomme om min tro og lærdomme.” Men igen forstod de det ikke, hvorfor han talte således, og ingen vovede at spørge, hvorfor han underviste dem om dette.		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.
138:6.4 (1543.2) I denne tidlige lære forsøgte Jesus så vidt muligt at undgå kontroverser med sine apostle, bortset fra dem, der involverede forkerte opfattelser af hans Far i himlen. I alle sådanne sager tøvede han aldrig med at korrigere fejlagtige overbevisninger. Der var kun et motiv i Jesu liv på Urantia efter dåben, og det var en bedre og sandere åbenbaring af hans Paradisiske Fader; han var pioneren for den nye og bedre vej til Gud, troens og kærlighedens vej. Hans evige formaning til apostlene var: “Gå ud og søg efter synderne; find de nedtrykte og trøst de ængstelige.”		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.”
138:6.5 (1543.3) Jesus havde en perfekt forståelse af situationen. Han havde ubegrænset magt, som han kunne have brugt for at fremme sin mission, men han var helt tilfreds med de midler og personligheder, som de fleste mennesker ville have anset for at være utilstrækkelig, og betragtet som ubetydelig. Han var engageret i en mission af enorme dramatiske muligheder, men han insisterede på, at gøre sin Faders anliggender i den roligste og mest udramatisk måde. Han undgik omhyggeligt al opvisning af magt. Hans plan var nu, i hvert fald i flere måneder at arbejde stille og roligt med sine apostle i området omkring Genesaret Sø.		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.
7. En ny skuffelse ^top		7. Another Disappointment ^top
138:7.1 (1543.4) Jesus havde planlagt en stille missionskampagne på fem måneders personligt arbejde. Han fortalte ikke apostlene, hvor længe det skulle vare; de arbejdede fra uge til uge. Og tidligt på denne første dag i ugen, netop som han var ved at meddele dette til sine tolv apostle, kom Simon Peter, James Zebedee og Judas Iskariot for at have en privat samtale med ham. Peter tog Jesus til side og dristede sig til at sige: “Mester, vi kommer på opfordring af vores medarbejdere for at spørge, om tiden ikke nu er moden til at træde ind i riget. Og vil du forkynde riget i Kapernaum, eller skal vi videre til Jerusalem? Og hvornår skal vi hver især lære, hvilke stillinger vi skal indtage sammen med dig i etableringen af riget—” og Peter ville have fortsat med at stille yderligere spørgsmål, men Jesus løftede en formanende hånd og stoppede ham. Og Jesus vinkede de andre apostle, der stod i nærheden, til at slutte sig til dem og sagde: “Mine små børn, hvor længe skal jeg bære over med jer! Har jeg ikke gjort det klart for jer, at mit rige ikke er af denne verden? Jeg har sagt til jer mange gange, at jeg ikke er kommet for at sidde på Davids trone, og hvordan kan det være, at I nu spørger, hvilken plads I hver især skal indtage i Faderens rige? Kan I ikke se, at jeg har kaldt jer som ambassadører for et åndeligt rige? Forstår I ikke, at I snart, meget snart, skal repræsentere mig i verden og i forkyndelsen af riget, ligesom jeg nu repræsenterer min Fader, som er i himlen? Kan det være, at jeg har udvalgt jer og instrueret jer som budbringere af riget, og alligevel forstår I ikke naturen og betydningen af dette kommende rige med guddommelig overhøjhed i menneskers hjerter? Mine venner, hør på mig endnu en gang. Forvis jer fra tanken om, at mit rige er et magtfuldt styre eller et herlighedsregime. Ja, al magt i himlen og på jorden vil i øjeblikket blive givet i mine hænder, men det er ikke Faderens vilje, at vi skal bruge denne guddommelige gave til at forherlige os selv i denne tidsalder. I en anden tidsalder skal I virkelig sidde sammen med mig i magt og herlighed, men det tilkommer os nu at underkaste os Faderens vilje og gå ud i ydmyg lydighed for at udføre hans bud på jorden.”		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.”
138:7.2 (1544.1) Endnu en gang var hans medarbejdere chokerede, lamslåede. Jesus sendte dem væk to og to for at bede og bad dem om at vende tilbage til ham ved middagstid. På denne afgørende formiddag søgte de hver især at finde Gud, og hver især forsøgte de at opmuntre og styrke den anden, og de vendte tilbage til Jesus, som han havde bedt dem om.		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.
138:7.3 (1544.2) Jesus fortalte dem nu om Johannes’ komme, dåben i Jordan, bryllupsfesten i Kana, den nylige udvælgelse af de seks og hans egne kødelige brødres tilbagetrækning fra dem, og advarede dem om, at rigets fjende også ville forsøge at trække dem væk. Efter denne korte, men alvorlige samtale rejste apostlene sig alle, under Peters ledelse, for at erklære deres evige hengivenhed til deres Mester og for at love deres urokkelige loyalitet over for riget, som Thomas udtrykte det: “Over for dette kommende rige, uanset hvad det er, og selv om jeg ikke helt forstår det.” De troede alle virkelig på Jesus, selv om de ikke helt forstod hans lære.		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.
138:7.4 (1544.3) Jesus spurgte dem nu, hvor mange penge de havde, og han spurgte også, hvad de havde sørget for til deres familier. Da det viste sig, at de næppe havde penge nok til at forsørge sig selv i to uger, sagde han: “Det er ikke min Faders vilje, at vi skal begynde vores arbejde på denne måde. Vi vil blive her ved havet i to uger og fiske eller gøre, hvad vore hænder finder på at gøre; og i mellemtiden skal I under ledelse af Andreas, den første udvalgte apostel, organisere jer på en sådan måde, at I kan sørge for alt, hvad der er nødvendigt i jeres fremtidige arbejde, både for den nuværende personlige tjeneste, og også når jeg senere vil ordinere jer til at forkynde evangeliet og undervise de troende.” De blev alle meget opmuntrede af disse ord; dette var deres første klare og positive antydning af, at Jesus senere havde til hensigt at gå ind i en mere aggressiv og prætentiøs offentlig indsats.		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.
138:7.5 (1544.4) Apostlene brugte resten af dagen på at perfektionere deres organisation og gøre klar til morgendagens fiskeri med både og net, for de havde alle besluttet sig for at hellige sig fiskeriet; de fleste af dem havde været fiskere, selv Jesus var en erfaren bådfører og fisker. Mange af de både, som de brugte de næste par år, havde Jesus selv bygget. Og det var gode og sødygtige både.		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.
138:7.6 (1544.5) Jesus opfordrede dem til at hellige sig fiskeriet i to uger og tilføjede: “Og så skal I gå ud og blive menneskefiskere.” De fiskede i tre grupper, og Jesus tog ud med en ny gruppe hver aften. Og de nød alle Jesus så meget! Han var en god fisker, en munter ledsager og en inspirerende ven; jo mere de arbejdede sammen med ham, jo mere elskede de ham. En dag sagde Mattæus: “Jo mere man forstår nogle mennesker, jo mindre beundrer man dem, men denne mand, jo mindre jeg forstår ham, jo mere elsker jeg ham.”		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) Denne plan med at fiske i to uger og gå ud for at udføre personligt arbejde for riget i to uger blev fulgt i mere end fem måneder, selv til slutningen af dette år 26 e.Kr. indtil efter ophøret af de særlige forfølgelser, der var blevet rettet mod Johannes’ disciple efter hans fængsling.		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 a.d. 26, until after the cessation of those special persecutions which had been directed against John’s disciples subsequent to his imprisonment.
8. De tolvs første arbejde ^top		8. First Work of the Twelve ^top
138:8.1 (1545.2) Efter at have afhændet de to ugers fiskefangst delte Judas Iskariot, som var valgt til at være kasserer for de tolv, de apostoliske midler i seks lige store portioner, idet der allerede var afsat midler til forsørgelse af afhængige familier. Og så omkring midten af august, i år 26 e.Kr., gik de ud to og to til de arbejdsområder, som Andreas havde tildelt dem. De første to uger gik Jesus ud med Andreas og Peter, de næste to uger med James og Johannes, og så videre med de andre par i den rækkefølge, de havde valgt. På den måde var han i stand til at gå ud mindst én gang med hvert par, før han kaldte dem sammen til begyndelsen af deres offentlige tjeneste.		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 a.d. 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.
138:8.2 (1545.3) Jesus lærte dem at forkynde syndernes forladelse gennem troen på Gud uden bod eller offer, og at Faderen i himlen elsker alle sine børn med den samme evige kærlighed. Han påbød sine apostle at afholde sig fra at diskutere:		138:8.2 (1545.3) Jesus taught them to preach the forgiveness of sin through faith in God without penance or sacrifice, and that the Father in heaven loves all his children with the same eternal love. He enjoined his apostles to refrain from discussing:
138:8.3 (1545.4) 1. Johannes Døberens arbejde og fængsling.		138:8.3 (1545.4) 1. The work and imprisonment of John the Baptist.
138:8.4 (1545.5) 2. Stemmen ved dåben. Jesus sagde: “Kun dem, der hørte stemmen kan nævne det. Tal kun om, hvad du har hørt fra mig, ikke rygter.”		138:8.4 (1545.5) 2. The voice at the baptism. Said Jesus: “Only those who heard the voice may refer to it. Speak only that which you have heard from me; speak not hearsay.”
138:8.5 (1545.6) 3. Da vandet blev til vin i Kana. Jesus gav dem et alvorligt påbud og sagde: “Fortæl ikke nogen om vandet og vinen.”		138:8.5 (1545.6) 3. The turning of the water into wine at Cana. Jesus seriously charged them, saying, “Tell no man about the water and the wine.”
138:8.6 (1545.7) De havde en vidunderlig tid i løbet af disse fem-seks måneder, hvor de arbejdede som fiskere hver anden uge og derved tjente penge nok til at forsørge sig selv i felten i hver af de efterfølgende to ugers missionsarbejde for riget.		138:8.6 (1545.7) They had wonderful times throughout these five or six months during which they worked as fishermen every alternate two weeks, thereby earning enough money to support themselves in the field for each succeeding two weeks of missionary work for the kingdom.
138:8.7 (1545.8) Almindelige mennesker undrede sig over Jesu og hans apostles undervisning og tjeneste. Rabbinerne havde længe lært jøderne, at de uvidende ikke kunne være fromme eller retfærdige. Men Jesu apostle var både fromme og retfærdige; alligevel var de gladelig uvidende om meget af rabbinernes lærdom og verdens visdom.		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.
138:8.8 (1545.9) Jesus gjorde det klart for sine apostle, at der var forskel på omvendelse ved såkaldte gode gerninger, som jøderne underviste i, og den sindelagsændring ved tro—den nye fødsel—som han krævede som prisen for adgang til riget. Han lærte sine apostle, at tro var den eneste forudsætning for at komme ind i Faderens rige. Johannes havde lært dem “omvendelse—at flygte fra den kommende vrede.” Jesus lærte: “Troen er den åbne dør ind til Guds nuværende, fuldkomne og evige kærlighed.” Jesus talte ikke som en profet, en, der kommer for at forkynde Guds ord. Han syntes at tale om sig selv som en, der har autoritet. Jesus forsøgte at aflede deres opmærksomhed fra at søge mirakler til at finde en ægte og personlig oplevelse i tilfredsstillelsen og visheden om, at Guds ånd af kærlighed og frelsende nåde bor i dem.		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.
138:8.9 (1545.10) Disciplene lærte tidligt, at Mesteren havde en dyb respekt og sympati for ethvert menneske, han mødte, og de var meget imponerede over denne ensartede og uforanderlige hensyntagen, som han så konsekvent gav alle slags mænd, kvinder og børn. Han kunne holde pause midt i en dybsindig tale for at gå ud på vejen og tale til en forbipasserende kvinde, der bar på en byrde af krop og sjæl. Han kunne afbryde en alvorlig konference med sine apostle for at fraternisere med et barn, der trængte sig på. Intet virkede nogensinde så vigtigt for Jesus som det individuelle menneske, der tilfældigvis befandt sig i hans umiddelbare nærhed. Han var mester og lærer, men han var mere—han var også en ven og nabo, en forstående kammerat.		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.
138:8.10 (1546.1) Selvom Jesus’ offentlige undervisning hovedsageligt bestod af lignelser og korte taler, underviste han altid sine apostle ved hjælp af spørgsmål og svar. Han holdt altid en pause for at besvare oprigtige spørgsmål under sine senere offentlige taler.		138:8.10 (1546.1) Though Jesus’ public teaching mainly consisted in parables and short discourses, he invariably taught his apostles by questions and answers. He would always pause to answer sincere questions during his later public discourses.
138:8.11 (1546.2) Apostlene var først chokerede over, men vænnede sig hurtigt til, Jesu behandling af kvinder; han gjorde det meget klart for dem, at kvinder skulle have samme rettigheder som mænd i riget.		138:8.11 (1546.2) The apostles were at first shocked by, but early became accustomed to, Jesus’ treatment of women; he made it very clear to them that women were to be accorded equal rights with men in the kingdom.
9. Fem prøvende måneder ^top		9. Five Months of Testing ^top
138:9.1 (1546.3) Denne noget monotone periode med skiftevis fiskeri og personligt arbejde viste sig at være en opslidende oplevelse for de tolv apostle, men de udholdt prøven. Med al deres brok, tvivl og forbigående utilfredshed forblev de tro mod deres løfter om hengivenhed og loyalitet over for Mesteren. Det var deres personlige samvær med Jesus i disse måneder med prøvelser, der gjorde ham så kær for dem, at de alle (undtagen Judas Iskariot) forblev loyale og tro mod ham, selv i de mørke timer under retssagen og korsfæstelsen. Rigtige mænd kunne simpelthen ikke forlade en æret lærer, der havde levet så tæt på dem og havde været dem så hengiven, som Jesus havde. I de mørke timer under Mesterens død blev al fornuft, dømmekraft og logik i disse apostles hjerter tilsidesat til fordel for én ekstraordinær menneskelig følelse—den højeste følelse af venskab-loyalitet. Disse fem måneders arbejde med Jesus fik apostlene til hver især at betragte ham som den bedste ven, de havde i hele verden. Og det var denne menneskelige følelse, og ikke hans fantastiske lære eller vidunderlige gerninger, der holdt dem sammen indtil efter opstandelsen og fornyelsen af proklamationen af evangeliet om riget.		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.
138:9.2 (1546.4) Ikke alene var disse måneder med stille arbejde en stor prøvelse for apostlene, en prøvelse, som de overlevede, men denne periode med offentlig inaktivitet var en stor prøvelse for Jesu familie. Da Jesus var parat til at gå i gang med sit offentlige arbejde, havde hele hans familie (undtagen Ruth) praktisk talt forladt ham. Kun få gange forsøgte de at komme i kontakt med ham igen, og da var det for at overtale ham til at tage med dem hjem, for de var tæt på at tro, at han var ude af sig selv. De kunne simpelthen ikke gennemskue hans filosofi eller fatte hans lære; det var alt for meget for dem af hans eget kød og blod.		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.
138:9.3 (1546.5) Apostlene udførte deres personlige arbejde i Kapernaum, Betsaida-Julias, Horasin, Gerasa, Hippos, Magdala, Kana, Betlehem i Galilæa, Jotapata, Rama, Safed, Gishala, Gadara og Abila. Ud over disse byer arbejdede de i mange landsbyer og på landet. Ved slutningen af denne periode havde de tolv udarbejdet ret tilfredsstillende planer for, hvordan de skulle tage sig af deres respektive familier. De fleste af apostlene var gift, og nogle havde flere børn, men de havde sørget for at forsørge deres familie på en sådan måde, at de med lidt hjælp fra de apostoliske fonde kunne bruge hele deres energi på Mesterens arbejde uden at skulle bekymre sig om deres familiers økonomiske velfærd.		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.
10. De tolvs organisation ^top		10. Organization of the Twelve ^top
138:10.1 (1547.1) Apostlene organiserede sig tidligt på følgende måder:		138:10.1 (1547.1) The apostles early organized themselves in the following manner:
138:10.2 (1547.2) 1. Andreas, den først valgte apostel, blev udpeget som formand og leder for de tolv.		138:10.2 (1547.2) 1. Andrew, the first chosen apostle, was designated chairman and director general of the twelve.
138:10.3 (1547.3) 2. Peter, James og Johannes blev udnævnt til Jesu personlige ledsagere. De skulle være hos ham dag og nat, tage sig af hans fysiske og andre behov og ledsage ham på de natlige vågenætter med bøn og mystisk fællesskab med Faderen i himlen.		138:10.3 (1547.3) 2. Peter, James, and John were appointed personal companions of Jesus. They were to attend him day and night, to minister to his physical and sundry needs, and to accompany him on those night vigils of prayer and mysterious communion with the Father in heaven.
138:10.4 (1547.4) 3. Filip blev gjort til forvalter af gruppen. Det var hans pligt at sørge for mad og sørge for, at de besøgende, og til tider også de mange tilhørere, fik noget at spise.		138:10.4 (1547.4) 3. Philip was made steward of the group. It was his duty to provide food and to see that visitors, and even the multitude of listeners at times, had something to eat.
138:10.5 (1547.5) 4. Nathaniel vågede over behovene hos de 12’s familier. Han modtog regelmæssige rapporter om behovene hos hver enkelt apostels familie og sendte hver uge penge til dem, der havde brug for det, efter at have anmodet Judas, kassereren, om det.		138:10.5 (1547.5) 4. Nathaniel watched over the needs of the families of the twelve. He received regular reports as to the requirements of each apostle’s family and, making requisition on Judas, the treasurer, would send funds each week to those in need.
138:10.6 (1547.6) 5. Mattæus var det apostoliske korps’ finansmand. Det var hans pligt at sørge for, at budgettet balancerede, og at pengekassen blev fyldt op. Hvis midlerne til gensidig støtte ikke var til stede, hvis der ikke blev modtaget donationer nok til at opretholde gruppen, var Mattæus bemyndiget til at beordre de tolv tilbage til deres net for en tid. Men det var aldrig nødvendigt, efter at de var begyndt deres offentlige arbejde; han havde altid tilstrækkelige midler i kassererens hænder til at finansiere deres aktiviteter.		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.
138:10.7 (1547.7) 6. Thomas var leder af rejseplanen. Det påhvilede ham at arrangere indkvartering og generelt udvælge steder til undervisning og forkyndelse og derved sikre en jævn og hurtig rejseplan.		138:10.7 (1547.7) 6. Thomas was manager of the itinerary. It devolved upon him to arrange lodgings and in a general way select places for teaching and preaching, thereby insuring a smooth and expeditious travel schedule.
138:10.8 (1547.8) 7. James og Judas, Alpheus’ tvillingesønner, blev sat til at lede folkemængden. Det var deres opgave at udnævne et tilstrækkeligt antal assisterende indviede, så de kunne opretholde ro og orden blandt folkemængden under forkyndelsen.		138:10.8 (1547.8) 7. James and Judas the twin sons of Alpheus were assigned to the management of the multitudes. It was their task to deputize a sufficient number of assistant ushers to enable them to maintain order among the crowds during the preaching.
138:10.9 (1547.9) 8. Simon Zelotes fik ansvaret for rekreation og leg. Han styrede onsdagsprogrammerne og forsøgte også at sørge for et par timers afslapning og adspredelse hver dag.		138:10.9 (1547.9) 8. Simon Zelotes was given charge of recreation and play. He managed the Wednesday programs and also sought to provide for a few hours of relaxation and diversion each day.
138:10.10 (1547.10) 9. Judas Iskariot blev udnævnt til kasserer. Han bar tasken. Han betalte alle udgifter og førte regnskaberne. Han lavede budgetoverslag for Mattæus fra uge til uge og lavede også ugentlige rapporter til Andreas. Judas udbetalte penge med Andreas’ tilladelse.		138:10.10 (1547.10) 9. Judas Iscariot was appointed treasurer. He carried the bag. He paid all expenses and kept the books. He made budget estimates for Matthew from week to week and also made weekly reports to Andrew. Judas paid out funds on Andrew’s authorization.
138:10.11 (1547.11) På denne måde fungerede de tolv fra deres tidlige organisering til tidspunktet for den reorganisering, der blev nødvendig, da forræderen Judas forlod dem. Mesteren og hans discipel-apostle fortsatte på denne enkle måde indtil søndag den 12. januar år 27, hvor han kaldte dem sammen og formelt ordinerede dem som ambassadører for riget og forkyndere af dets glade budskab. Og kort efter forberedte de sig på at tage til Jerusalem og Judæa på deres første offentlige forkyndelsestur.		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, a.d. 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.