Instruction and Reproof
Matt. 17:14-21
In this passage we have already studied “faith” and “unbelief” in previous lessons. Today we will look at one more thing that the Lord wants us to do. We saw that the disciples had all the faith to heal the lunatic that was needed, because in Matt.10:1, they had been given the power to do it. Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the word of God. The Lord points out that they didn’t have a lack of faith but had a lack of belief. They didn’t quite believe enough. In this lesson we need to look at one other point that the Lord told them. “this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting’ the disciples got reproofed and instructed. Just because we read our Bibles and increase our faith does not mean that we don’t need instruction and reproof.
[Prov.6:23] “For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life:” The sooner that a person learns this truth the better they are. Sad to say but we are destined to see a generation of children that have had no reproof or instruction grow up to be fools, and it will not be good. If a father loves his son he will instruct and reprove him, [Prov.15:5] to regard (to esteem; to hold in respect and affection) a reproof is prudent( wise; intelligent). [Prov.4:13] ”Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep her; for she is thy life.” We ought to covet instruction and seek it out. Far too many times we are like the two-year-old that will not take instruction as how to tie her shoes, only screams “let me do it!”. I can just imagine that God sees us the same way. [Prov.10:17] when we refuse, we erreth. [Prov.12:1] if you love instruction then you should love to be reproved! If you hate reproof, the Bible says you are brutish (ignorant). Reproof is the process by which you get the knowledge needed to do it correctly the next time. Instruction and reproof work together. [Prov.13:18] What a choice, poverty and shame or to be honored. It is a choice each of gets to make daily. Isn’t it strange how we will not ask for instruction because we are ashamed, yet refusing instruction causes shame? [James 1:5] upbraideth not [2Tim.3:16] “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:” Thank God that He has provided everything we need to be able to live and enjoy a Godly life, He has provided us His word whereby we can access all the faith needed to walk therein. He has given all men a measure of faith (Rom.12:3) whereby we can believe. But in addition to that He will daily offer us instruction with reproof so that we can do everything that pleases Him. [Prov.5:10-13, 23] You never want to get to this point! Receive instruction and reproof, it’s a good thing.