The Word Frees the Captive

​The Word Frees the Captive
 
Luke 4:33-37 In the synagogue there was a man possessed by a demon, an evil spirit. He cried out at the top of his voice, 34 “Ha! What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are – the Holy One of God!” 35 “Be quiet!” Jesus said sternly. “Come out of him!” 36 All the people were amazed and said to each other, “What is this teaching? With authority and power, he gives orders to evil spirits, and they come out!” 37 And the news about him spread throughout the surrounding area.
 
WHEN you are amazed at Jesus’ power as the people at Capernaum, you quickly want to tell others, don’t you? Are you amazed about your salvation?
    There was much to tell in Capernaum. Can you imagine? The demon obeyed the Son of Man. The demon knew Jesus could destroy him. He had an appropriate fear of God. He did not doubt God’s Word.
    Unfortunately, too many people who say they are Christians doubt what God says. Surveys reveal 50% of chur-going people in the U.S. do not believe the devil is real. That also means 50% deny the authority and truth of God’s Word! We cannot call Jesus, “Lord.” if we do not submit to his word.
    This ignorance and denial of the truth is one form of demonic influence. We must confront demonic influence and possession with the power of God’s Word. After all, the Word is the sword of the Spirit. (Ephesians 6:.17) And Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Ffrom Genesis to Revelation, the battle rages. Does this amaze you?  
    Demons hold captive many people through physical and mental illness, idol worship and ignorance of God’s Word. Demons draw people into the dark chains of materialism, animism, witchcraft, astrology and countless man-formed religions. Many ministers, evangelists and missionaries testify of demonic influence among the people they serve.
    As in all spiritual battles, we know our sure hope is in Jesus’ victory. Romans 8:38-39 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
    After all, Jesus is the Holy One of God. The demons knew who is Lord. We must know, too, and trust all of  his Word is true.
     
Prayer: Unchain my heart, Lord, from anything that binds me from truly worshiping you. Thank you, Jesus, for delivering me from evil. Amen.