Luke 4:40-41 (NIV)
40At sunset, the people brought to Jesus all who had various kinds of sickness, and laying his hands on each one, he healed them. 41Moreover, demons came out of many people, shouting, “You are the Son of God!” But he rebuked them and would not allow them to speak, because they knew he was the Messiah.
Reflection
Through Jesus’ work we get a clear understanding that the kingdom of God is advancing not just on earth but in the spiritual realm and over forces of evil as well. Jesus is at work healing and setting people free, while the demons are destructive. But this is by no means an even battle. The demons recognize that Jesus is the holy one of God and do declare that Jesus is the “Son of God.” Authority does not belong to the demons. Jesus has authority over the demons demonstrated by his words and actions, and by silencing the demonic confessions. If these forces can never overtake Jesus and Jesus has power over them, then Jesus has the ability to deliver on his promises to save. While there is a supernatural war that is taking place, we can bank on the truth that though we are living the already but not-yet reality, we know the final victory belongs to God.
Responding to the Transmission
We should be aware of the reality of spiritual battle. And as we look at this world and our lives, we should know that there is a supernatural context. At the same time, we can rest assured that all victory belongs to Jesus in every realm. Today let’s place our full trust in him and pray that we would experience his victory in our lives more and more.
