Crowds came to the synagogue in Capernaum to hear Jesus speak. He spoke truth in a direct and simple way they could understand. His voice, refined and clear, was music to their ears,yet with assured authority and power. Christ sought to break the infatuation of earthly things, showing the importance of keeping eternal interests first. In doing so one is better able to perform earthly tasks.
One Sabbath when Jesus was speaking of the spiritual kingdom and being set free from Satan’s captivity, a madman ran forward shrieking, “Let us alone; what have we to do with You, Jesus of Nazareth? Are you come to destroy us? I know who You are; the Holy One of God!”
All was confusion, but Jesus rebuked the demon, saying, “Hold your peace and come out of him.” The devil threw the man down and came out of him, and he was unhurt.
This wretched person had longed to be free of Satan’s control. He sensed he was in the presence of One who could free him, but when he cried out, the evil spirit put words of fear into his mouth. The conflict of his desire and the demon’s control was terrible. He had fallen into his slavery by dabbling further and further into evil thoughts and deeds. Jesus set the man free, and he praised God for his deliverance.
When we turn away from the plain teachings of Scripture and the conviction of the Holy Spirit we are inviting control of the enemy as did the demoniac.
God, who is love, doesn’t control us without our consent, but if we are willing to know Him and do His will, His promise is, “You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32)
If you have a question for Bible Mentor Marie Odell you can contact her by emailing: marieodell04@gmail.com
Marie Odell is a member of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church.
_______________
Like us on Facebook