In Luke 9:1-2 we see how Jesus began to train the disciples in administering spiritual authority; the justice of the kingdom of God over the kingdom of darkness. “Then He called His twelve disciples together and gave them power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases.
Jesus sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.” After they returned He rejoiced; then gave another lesson on the nature of the authority He had given them, and the appropriate way of relating to that authority.
Then the seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name.” And He said to them, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven” (Luke 10:17-20).
RELEVANCE
In time the disciples had experienced and learned much of the kingdom of God and realities of spiritual authority. They experienced new life in Christ by the Spirit; a new realm of life. Truly, it’s not something you can merely read about.
You have to believe and apply active trusting faith to experience it. You have to believe that God still operates as He did as written in the scriptures, through missionaries over the centuries and today through willing, trusting and faithful servants. You also have to know that opposition will come from the kingdom of darkness, and be prepared to fight spiritual battles. We look at more on that on another page.
REFLECT AND RELATE
Ask God what it takes to be a “sent” disciple. For starters, it takes willingness and simple trusting faith. Look deep inside as to how much you are willing to step out in faith to experience the genuine ministry of the Spirit. God will test your heart, mind and will. He knows the enemy will for sure! In His grace, He prepares us for what He ordains us to do and walk through. Keep in mind, it is God’s power that works; not man’s. Also know that to be in authority you must be under authority and accountable to others.
REFERENCES
Matthew 10:16; Ephesians 1:3-6, 17-21; 5:12-21; 15-21; 6:10-19; Jude 9-10, Zechariah 3:2