Elim Family Worship Centre

In Mathew chapter 9, we read that Jesus has come into His own town. In the previous chapter, there have been some rather hair-raising experiences, the culmination being that demons who had been housed within a person, were sent into a herd of pigs.? There was so much uproar over this incident that the residents of that particular place, begged Jesus to leave.

The fact is, however, that wherever He goes, there are crowds, and usually some kind of scene. In this instance, a paralytic is brought to Him. Jesus first of all makes a statement.? He says, 'Take courage, your sins are forgiven, and the penalty remitted'.? The scribes are quite incensed, and among themselves begin to accuse Him of blasphemy.? Jesus asks them the question 'Which is easier to say, your sins are forgiven, or Get up and walk'?? He wanted them to be acutely aware, that every word that came out of His mouth had authority, not only His words of declarative healing.

The man is healed, and walks away. The crowd is left in awe. In verse 8, we see that they make this profound statement, 'they were struck with fear and awe, and they recognized God, and praised and thanked Him, who had given such power and authority to men'

As I read this verse some weeks ago, I was incredibly struck with the realization that, firstly, in this account, there was a recognition of who God was, and that produced a reverence and praise toward Him. Secondly that God's authority flowed through Jesus, as a Man, and that every word that came out of His mouth was earmarked and stamped with God's own zeal. Thirdly, that they also thanked God for giving such power and authority to men.

What really spoke to me, was the plural 'men' meaning mankind. Sometimes, I think it would probably be easier, if we simply believed that it was only Jesus, and maybe a few of His handpicked disciples who had been given the mandate for speaking, and acting in His authority and power. Maybe that would somewhat comfort us at the 'little power' we are seeing now. However, everything in me rejects that thinking process, because the words of Jesus still ring true today, regarding the 'greater thing'? that are still to be done in us and through us, His church.

My husband, has begun teaching, on the fact, that we are in the days of transitioning from the church age to the kingdom age.? As with all earthly governments, when a new government is appointed, there is a transition team, that comes along to makes sure that the transition time is as effective as possible.

Let me ask you a question, are you willing and in fact eager, to be on the Lord's transition team, for this kingdom time.? Our qualifications will have to be that our words, and our actions will be totally clothed with His authority and power.? The gospel of the kingdom, must not only be preached, but wholeheartedly lived out in our individual 'oiko'? (our circle of influence)

I'm praying for the day, when the 'crowd' will again thank God, for giving such authority and power to men, meaning 'U'?, those who are desperate to see His kingdom come on earth.

Think on these things

Blessings on you and your household

Janet.

Entry Filed under: Pastor Janet's Selah List