People typically don’t like to be told what to do. The desire to be self-sufficient, independent, and unburdened by the restraints of authority is inherent in all of us. These desires are not altogether bad, but they certainly can prompt us to make bad choices if carried to their logical end—a total rejection of all authority and accountability. As Jesus launches into his earthly ministry in Luke chapter 4, we see right away there’s something different about him. Both the physical and spiritual realms react to Jesus’s authoritative presence. The crowds are amazed by his teaching and subsequent miracles, and the demons obey his commands. Luke emphasizes Jesus’s authority in the later half of chapter 4. He helps us see how Jesus’s authority confronts spiritual battles both in human hearts and the cosmic spiritual forces at play. Jesus’s authority ought to grip us in such a way that we recognize his capability to deliver people from the domain of darkness. His power over the spiritual and the physical should assure us that he is intent on not only saving us from death but protecting us from evil. Many obstacles in life attempt to create doubt, fear, and a false sense of security and self-reliance. We need Jesus. We need to submit to his authority. But rather than fleeing from him as the demon would do, or rejecting him like the crowds would ultimately do, we must run to him, embrace him, and never let go! –Pastor Nate
Sunday at Liberty
9AM: Guarding Grace–Titus 3:4-8
10AM: Pastor Rory–A Spirit Who Flees–Luke 4:31-44 (sermon notes)
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