Following Jesus 47

As we examine the Twelve Disciples of Jesus, we now examine the third group of four. Following James the Less, we continue with the disciple known as Judas Lebbaeus Thaddaeus.  What do we know about this follower of Jesus? 
 
Here are some facts Judas Lebbaeus Thaddaeus. To begin with, he is first mentioned in Matthew 10:3. He is also mentioned in Luke 6:16 and Acts 1:13 where he is called Judas the son of James.
 
In John 14:21 he is called Judas (not Iscariot). His full name may have been Judas Lebbaeus Thaddaeus. Lebbaeus from the Hebrew word “Leb” means heart. It may mean heart child which refers to courageousness. 
 
Thaddaeus from the Hebrew word “thad” means breast child. Perhaps this name refers to one who is the youngest of the family or one particularly cherished by his mother. 
Thaddeus asks one question which is recorded in Scripture. John 14:21-24 says, 
 
“Whoever has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me. And he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him.” 
 
“Judas (not Iscariot) said to him, “Lord, how is it that you will manifest yourself to us, and not to the world?” Jesus answered him, “If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. Whoever does not love me does not keep my words. And the word that you hear is not mine but the Father's who sent me.” (John 14:21-24 ESV).
 
He may have thought Jesus’ kingdom was going to be visible and outward kingdom; much like Rome. He may have thought Jesus was immediately going to set up an earthly kingdom right then and there in Israel. 
 
His question may have displayed his humility. Jesus had manifested himself to his disciples, why not the world? He may have shown courage by asking for the kingdom to be revealed right then and there. However, Jesus wanted Thaddaeus to know that those who truly belonged to Jesus’ kingdom would show it by an obedient life of service to the Lord. 
 

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