34. Jesus teaches with great authority
– Mark 1:21-28 & Luke 4:31-37
Mark 1:21-22 “Jesus went into the synagogue and began to teach. The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law.”
Jewish teachers would often quote from great rabbis to give their sermons more authority. Citing helps give credibility. But, when Jesus spoke he did not quote anyone. He spoke with authority and certainty. Jesus is God. He knew the scriptures as well as the meaning behind them. Jesus wasn’t created when he was made into flesh on earth. He was always there from the beginning. He lived out the scriptures in the Old Testament. Who better to teach these scriptures than God himself? Of course he has authority to speak without referencing human rabbis.
Mark 1:23-27 “Just then a man in their synagogue who was possessed by an evil spirit cried out, ‘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!’ ‘Be quiet!’ said Jesus sternly, ‘Come out of him!’ The evil spirit shook the man violently and came out of him with a shriek. The people were all so amazed that they asked each other, ‘What is this? A new teaching – with authority! He even gives orders to evil spirits and they obey him.”
2 Peter 2:4 “God did not spare angels when they sinned, but sent them to hell, putting them into gloomy dungeons to be held for judgement.”
Revelations 12: 9 “The ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him.”
God is the creator of everything. God even created the demons. They are fallen angels who decided to join Satan with his rebellion. The demons know their creator. When the demon recognized Jesus it gave him even more credibility. The demon knew Jesus as the Holy One of God who would be the messiah. More so, the demon obeyed Jesus immediately. Jesus has power over everything. His words alone were enough to send out the demon. Be comforted in knowing that God has already conquered Satan. There is nothing to be afraid of when you chose to follow God. But, to be a Christian is more than simply believing God is real. Even the demons believe God is real. But rather, you need to believe Jesus died for your sins and commit your life to him. You need to recognize him as your Lord and savior.
Luke 4:33 “In the synagogue there was a man possessed by a demon.”
Yes, the demon possessed man came into the place of worship. More so, he came and approached Jesus. Spirits can be anywhere, even churches. Don’t be naive in thinking that they don’t exist. Satan will use them anywhere that he can. But, don’t worry. God has already conquered Satan. Demons cannot harm you. God will protect you. God has ultimate authority.
