Jesus’ power over demons demonstrates that the Kingdom of God has arrived and that religious people rejected Him by accusing Him falsely of being the prince of demons, because of their unbelief.
The Bible clearly affirms that we are engaged in combat with an unseen enemy that is intent on destroying the human race: “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places” (Eph. 6:12). It is a frightening truth which no one should doubt or ignore. But many do doubt it and live as if it is not true.
The apostle John affirms that “the Son of God appeared for this purpose, that He might destroy the works of the devil” (1 John 3:8). Luke is showing that Jesus’ miracles establish His legitimate authority as the Messiah, the Son of God, sent to deliver us from the power of Satan.
Jesus is the only one that can set us free from the dominion of Satan. And He did that by taking our place in the Cross of Calvary as our substitute, absorbing in Him the wrath of God against our sin thus being a perfect sacrifice acceptable by God. In Christ and because of what He did, we are free from the power of Satan. There is a spiritual battle raging with two and only two sides. Clearly, Jesus has authority over Satan and his forces. We are on one side or the other. If you are not decisively on Jesus’ side, you are against Him. To join His side, you must believe in Him and follow Him in obedient faith.
Discussion Questions.
1. Why is it important to affirm that there is no neutral ground between Jesus and Satan? Is there such a thing as a “carnal” or “nominal” Christian?
2. How should we witness to skeptics who demand proof of spiritual things?
3. How can we tell if a person is under demonic influence or if he is just acting in the flesh? Does it make any difference?
4. If self-help programs help people with their problems, what’s wrong with them?
