[1] “And when He had called His twelve disciples to Him, He gave them power over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease.” — Matthew 10:1 NKJV
When Jesus called the disciples, He did it mainly for them to be with Him, so that after they were well trained, He’ll send them out (see Mark 3:14). But as every wise leader will do, He’ll send his trainees to where they’re supposed to go for them to have field experience for a while before commissioning them fully. That is why many universities insist on students interning at workplaces during their vacations.
Jesus, the wisest leader, employed this strategy while training His disciples. They’ve been with Him for so long, seen Him cast out demons, heal the sick, sleep, wake up to pray and experience extraordinary miracles. But it was a trial time for them to preach the gospel in pairs without his physical presence. However, He knew that ministry isn’t a mere work which could be done with human strength. Jesus knew that nobody could do ministry without power. That is why He gave the disciples power over unclean spirits.
In those times, the power of death and hell were in the devil’s hands. Jesus was the only person who came from above and had more power than the devil. So these disciples needed to be impacted by Him before sending them out, or else they’d be molested by demons as they did to the seven sons of Sceva in Acts 19:14-16.
Today, in the dispensation of grace, it’s different. First of all, the devil has been ripped away any power. So, he is powerless (see Hebrews 2:14). Secondly, all power, both in heaven and on Earth, has been given unto Jesus (see Matthew 28:18). That is why when He told the disciples to go to the world and make disciples in Matthew 28:19, He didn’t impact them as He did in Matthew 10. He knew that once they believed in Him and saw His resurrection, they were saved. Therefore, His power dwelt in them through the Spirit.
Whether you’re called to preach in church or not, never forget that once you’re a child of God, Jesus has given you power over unclean spirits. Use your mouth to pray and settle controversies in the realm of the spirit. Do not entertain any work of the devil in your life. For you have enough authority to order your life in sync with God’s dictates. The Lord is your strength.
Prayer:
Father, thank You for the immeasurable power vested in me through the presence of Your Spirit in my life. In the name of Jesus, I overturn anything in my life that is not Your will by power. Amen!
Devotional Code: KGD – 2024 – 074
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