The Word of Christ Comes with Power and Authority
If you’re familiar with Jesus’ ministry, then you probably know that the people of his time were looking for their Savior to be an earthly king. And to be fair, “power” and “authority” usually denote secular ruling in the form of government, caesars, or kings.
The nation of Israel expected a coup d’état; a military overthrow, or at least some relief from the Roman empire. But Jesus didn’t come to overthrow justice. He came to fulfill it.
Romans 6 tells us the wages of sin is death. Justice for misdeeds must be served. So, Christ fulfilled it on the cross. His sacrifice – his holy and perfect life for ours – is the source of our justification. As the ancient Greek word “aphiemi” reminds us, Christ took it away. He removed our sins.
Christ’s authority and power come from the cross. With this, He has established the Kingdom of Grace. A kingdom that He rules with forgiveness.
Today’s sermon is based on Luke 4:
31 Then he went down to Capernaum, a town in Galilee, and on the Sabbath he taught the people. 32 They were amazed at his teaching, because his words had authority. 33 In the synagogue there was a man possessed by a demon, an impure spirit. He cried out at the top of his voice, 34 “Go away! 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!” 35 “Be quiet!” Jesus said sternly. “Come out of him!” Then the demon threw the man down before them all and came out without injuring him.
36 All the people were amazed and said to each other, “What words these are! With authority and power he gives orders to impure spirits and they come out!” 37 And the news about him spread throughout the surrounding area.
38 Jesus left the synagogue and went to the home of Simon. Now Simon’s mother-in-law was suffering from a high fever, and they asked Jesus to help her. 39 So he bent over her and rebuked the fever, and it left her. She got up at once and began to wait on them. 40 At sunset, the people brought to Jesus all who had various kinds of sickness, and laying his hands on each one, he healed them. 41 Moreover, demons came out of many people, shouting, “You are the Son of God!” But he rebuked them and would not allow them to speak, because they knew he was the Messiah.
42 At daybreak, Jesus went out to a solitary place. The people were looking for him and when they came to where he was, they tried to keep him from leaving them. 43 But he said, “I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns also, because that is why I was sent.” 44 And he kept on preaching in the synagogues of Judea.
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Announcements
Bible Study: You are invited to join us! We have two classes every week. The first one meets Sunday mornings at 9:45 am in person and is covering The Power & Primacy of the Pope.
The second one meets on Wednesday nights at 7 pm via Zoom and covers the Book of Revelation.
Donations: Even during the pandemic and with a decline in attendance, the expenses still go on. If you wish to make a donation please mail them to the St. James post office box as that is a secure location. You may also donate online.
LWML: The next Zone Prayer Service is scheduled for February 26 at Lamb of God in Seattle. Please contact Margaret Ebert for more details. Also, activities are ongoing so any financial support is appreciated!
Prayer requests. Bring your prayer requests to Pastor Jenson, Deacon Poe, or Loyd Harris (bulletin typist). They will be printed in the bulletin and prayed in the Sunday service. The deadline is Tuesday. Remember to obtain permission if you are bringing a prayer request on behalf of another person.
Prayer during a pandemic:
Almighty God, heavenly Father, give us grace to trust You during this time of illness and distress. In mercy put an end to the pandemic that afflicts us. Grant relief to those who suffer, and comfort all that mourn. Sustain all medical personnel in their labors, and cause Your people ever to serve You in righteousness and holiness; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.