GREAT EXPECTATIONS

Deuteronomy 18:15-20; 1 Corinthians 8:1-13; Mark 1:21-28

Introduction

The concept of power over demons is a central theme in Christianity. It revolves around the belief that Jesus Christ, the Alpha and the Omega, possesses divine authority and supremacy over spiritual forces of darkness, also referred to as demons or evil spirits.

This power over demons signifies the divine nature of Jesus and His mission to overcome the forces of evil. Jesus said, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, 19 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” (Luke 4:18-19)

Christ's power over demons demonstrates the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and God's sovereignty over all realms. The New Testament consistently portrays Jesus as not only a teacher and healer but also as a conqueror of demonic forces, illustrating the cosmic battle between God and the powers of darkness.

Exegesis

In Deuteronomy 18:15-20, Moses speaks of a prophet like him who will come. The Israelites anticipated the coming of this promised Prophet so they asked John, "Are you the Prophet?" And he answered, "No." (Jn. 1:21). "Philip found Nathanael and said to him, “We have found him of whom Moses in the Law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” (John 1:45). We see the fulfillment of this prophecy in the life of Jesus. From this "Prophet," comes the command and authority of God. 

"God at Horeb on the day of assembly," sought to be with the people and speak to them [Immanuel-God with us] but the people said, "Let me not hear again the voice of the LORD my God or see this great fire any more, lest I die.’" (Deuteronomy 18:16). God promised the coming of Jesus Christ to be with the people and speak to them and demonstrate God's power over demons and principalities to mankind.

Jesus Christ is our Immanuel with total authority over demons set to imprison, destroy, and kill the children of God.  

In 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Paul emphasizes the knowledge that puffs up and the love that builds up. The knowledge of Jesus' authority over demons not only enlightens our minds but also invites us to share in the boundless love that casts out fear. As believers, we are called not only to understand but to embody the love of Christ to have power over demons.

Apostle Paul explains to us that since Christ is in us, whatever the devil plots against us will have no reality against us. He cites the example of eating food offered to idols, and says, "We know that “an idol has no real existence,” and that “there is no God but one.”" (1 Corinthians 8:4). He concludes with the assurance that "for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist." (1 Corinthians 8:6). No demon can harm us because God is with us.

Turning our attention to the Gospel of Mark 1:21-28, we witness a striking demonstration of Jesus' authority. As Jesus enters the synagogue in Capernaum, the people are astonished at His teaching, for He speaks with authority, unlike the scribes. However, a man possessed by an unclean spirit challenges Jesus.

What a powerful moment this is! In the face of demonic opposition, Jesus stands unwavering. He rebukes the unclean spirit, and it obeys Him, leaving the man astounded. The people witnessed firsthand, the authority of Jesus over the spiritual forces of darkness. They even asked, "“What is this? A new teaching with authority! He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him.”" (Mark 1:27). This is no new teaching, but the coming of the One who existed before the world began, Jesus Christ, the Alpha and the Omega. 

In our lives, we may encounter various struggles, be they physical, emotional, or spiritual. It's easy to feel overwhelmed, but let us not forget the assurance we find in Jesus. His power over demons extends to every area of our lives. Just as He commanded the unclean spirit to leave the possessed man, Jesus can bring liberation and healing to our lives.

Our faith calls us to recognize the authority of Jesus in all circumstances. We are encouraged to bring our challenges, fears, and struggles before Him, trusting that His power transcends every force that may try to hold us captive. In times of darkness, let us turn to the light of Christ, knowing that His authority is our refuge and strength.

Conclusion

As we go forth from this place, may we carry with us the confidence that comes from understanding and embracing the truth that Jesus has power over demons. Let this knowledge empower us to live boldly, love deeply, and serve joyfully, knowing that in Christ, we are victorious. Let us focus on Christ's power over demons but not on what demons can do.

Amen.

Shalom aleikhem...