The Kingdom

Read Luke 4:31-44. Jesus doesn't seem to be emotionally beat up from the first attempt on his life. I guess if those in my hometown had just tried to kill me I might hide out for a while but not Jesus. Verse 43 explain what is going on - the kingdom of God is being set up. The kingdom of darkness and the kingdom of light can not co-exist. (I John 1:5-10) As Jesus comes - demons must go! In fact its almost as if the demons come to Jesus as if to say they know the king is here and they're going to have to leave at some point anyway.

The key here is verse 32 "His message was with authority." This doesn't simply mean he was a confident speaker. It means that what he was saying was new revelation directly from God. It means that God was speaking directly to hearts through him. Like those in synagogue that worshiped day - we too can usually tell when God is speaking to us. Scripture itself is inspired of God and convicts our hearts. (II Peter 1:20-21)

When we put this passage all together we see two things. Where the word of God is - God's authority rest. Where God sets up his kingdom by his authority - evil must leave. If we are going to put scripture in our hearts - our lives will change. We may not have demons but we do have sin. It is key that we don't merely listen to the word of God - but do what it says! (James 1:22)

Psalms 119:9-11 "How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to  your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you."

questions

1) What verses of scripture has God used to change your life to this point?

2) What sin are you struggling with right now that the word of God might help erase?

3) What commands of God have you heard but not yielded to - ask God to show you.

 Get your bible out and read Hebrews 4:12 - try to memorize it this week!

prayer

Father thank you for sending your son. You knew we needed a visual aid for Holiness! Give us the kind of faith to not react to those who attack us like Jesus had when attacked in his hometown. Let our love increase so we have real knowledge and insight on the decisions we make. Lord I open my heart for you to come in and make adjustments in my life. I give you total access to my thoughts, desires and dreams. Make me more like you Lord.