JOB INTERVIEW

Recently, CNBC hosted one of the Republican Presidential debates, and determined to make it like a job interview. Their first question was, “What is your biggest weakness and what are you doing to address it?” Some candidates completely ignored the question. Others gave answers such as “People say that I don’t smile enough,” or “I’m impatient,” or “I’m too trusting.” To me the whole line of questioning was inappropriate. We are looking for a high level President not an entry level receptionist.

But it reminded me of the various job interviews I have had to endure over the years. Nothing can upset you like waiting to be called in to an office for “The Interview.” Now days, there are many experts on how to prepare for the interview. They suggest preparing by shining your shoes, trimming your nose hair, and arriving 20 minutes early. Most of the classic questions can be best answered by memorizing your achievement stories, acquainting yourself with the interviewing organization, and knowing your own personal chronology of job history without any blank spaces.

The hardest question I was ever asked in a job interview was while I was in college. I had applied for a job as a ladies shoe salesman at a prominent department store in Dallas. The floor manager that was interviewing me was not much older than me, but had many years of experience in the business. After a few typical questions, he stared at me and asked, “What is the one question you hope I will not ask?”

For three years Jesus interview people to be leaders in His coming Kingdom. The candidates walked with Jesus every day, and saw His miracles and heard His teachings. They had opportunity to ask Jesus questions and to share their own opinions. But on occasion, Jesus would ask them pointed and difficult questions designed to test their passion, character, and aptitude for being a chosen leader.

Here are only three of the insightful questions Jesus asked these potential leaders:

1. Matthew 20:22 - The mother of the sons of Zebedee had just begged Jesus to have her sons sit next to Him in positions of honor in Glory. So, Jesus asked the boys, “Are you able to drink the cup that I am about to drink?”

2. Luke 8:25 – The disciples were in a boat as the storm raged. Jesus calmed the storm and then asked, “Where is your faith?”

3. John 21:16 – The disciples were having breakfast with Jesus by the sea. Suddenly, Jesus turned to Simon and asked, “Do you love Me more than these?”

These three questions must be answered correctly by any potential disciple of Christ today.

1. The first question dealt with commitment to Jesus to stand firm in difficult times

2. The second question required a statement of faith that Christ can do anything, anywhere, and at anytime.

3. The third question focused on the most critical decision we will ever make – do we love Jesus more than anything else in our life.

So there you are: Commitment, Faith, and Love. How would you have answered those questions? Your answers will matter for eternity!