Week of 3/24-3/30: His Life - The Power of His Kingdom

Day One: Mark 1:29-34 As soon as they left the synagogue, they went into Simon and Andrew’s house with James and John. Simon’s mother-in-law was lying in bed with a fever, and they told Him about her at once. So He went to her, took her by the hand, and raised her up. The fever left her, and she began to serve them. When evening came, after the sun had set, they began bringing to Him all those who were sick and those who were demon-possessed. The whole town was assembled at the door, and He healed many who were sick with various diseases and drove out many demons. But He would not permit the demons to speak, because they knew Him.

I DON’T GO TO THE SYMPHONY very often.And by “very often,” I actually mean “never.” My wife has, however, convinced me to attend a few plays that have orchestra accompaniments.During these performances, I find myself entranced on the conductor.Despite all the action taking place on stage, my eyes continuously drift toward the orchestra’s leader.

By simply moving a tiny stick, called a baton, the conductor is able to lead an entire orchestra.There is something powerful about one man with a small baton being able to direct an entire band.The musicians obeyed every command of the baton and he displayed complete authority over the group.

In Mark 29, we see a picture of a conductor showing complete authority over everything He encountered.The conductor was Jesus and the things he encountered included sicknesses, demon-possessions, and even an interaction the demons themselves.

Jesus exercised power and authority over these things with his Word.For example, He healed Simon’s mother-in-law.He cured many other sicknesses from the town’s people.He cast out and instructed demons not to speak.In other words, Jesus showed complete dominance over everything He encountered.When we read about the power and authority of Jesus, we are left with a spectacular picture.For this reason, we must spend more time reading about Him, listening to Him, and talking with Him.He alone has the power and authority change our lives for His glory.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

▷▷When you think about “power,” what is the first thing that comes to mind?

▷▷What makes that thing “powerful”?

▷▷How does understanding the idea of “power” help us to understand the gospel of Christ?