on May 23, 2013
Luke 9:1-6 – When Jesus had called the Twelve together, he gave them power and authority to drive out all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. He told them: “Take nothing for the journey–no staff, no bag, no bread, no money, no extra tunic. Whatever house you enter, stay there until you leave that town. If people do not welcome you, shake the dust off your feet when you leave their town, as a testimony against them.” So they set out and went from village to village, preaching the gospel and healing people everywhere.
Jesus gave POWER and AUTHORITY – to drive out all demons and cure diseases. He resourced His disciples for the assignment He was about to give them! Their assignment? Go and preach the kingdom of God and heal the sick! This was no small task! The power and influence of the devil and his minions has caused catastrophic illness, destruction and death! It was the power of the devil working through the serpent in the Garden of Eden that influenced and brought about original sin and death! Now, a stronger power and authority has arrived on the scene, and He is binding the power of the Evil one. Blind eyes were given sight, the lame were walking again, lepers were being cleansed, the deaf were hearing, the dead were being raised, and Good News was being preached to the poor! Such was the power and authority of the Lord Jesus Christ! He gave a measure of this power and authority to the Twelve as He sent them to preach the kingdom of God and heal the sick.
In a culture plagued by wickedness, disease and demonic influence, it’s important for people to see that the Good News of the Gospel comes with power to heal and deliver! It is not impotent! The Gospel news is not just another nice religious option for people to consider, it comes with power and authority! It’s what moved the Apostle Paul to say, “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes.” – Romans 1:16. This Gospel of Good News is really from God! It comes with His authority and power! It can save EVERYONE who believes – from the destruction, disease and demonic influence of the devil to the life of God in Jesus Christ! Christian, do you believe this? If so, don’t be embarrassed, ashamed or timid to let your world hear about it! Go! Preach the Good News! Testify to the power of God and drive out the demon influence and bring healing to our sin-sick world!
Not only did Christ give power and authority for their ministry of the Good News, He assured them of their support. He instructed them to travel light and that their support will come from those whom they will minister to. They were directed to stay and minister in the homes where they would be received. If any place did not welcome them, they were free to shake the dust off their shoes and move on to where they would be received. So they received their commission from Christ, set out, and went from village to village, preaching the gospel and healing people everywhere. They were operating under the authority and power of Christ Jesus. We too have a great commission – Preach the Gospel, and heal the sick!