January 4, 2016:  SOAP #2223:  

Scripture:  Luke (NIV) 4:32 They were amazed at his teaching, because his message had authority… 36 All the people were amazed and said to each other, “What is this teaching?  With authority and power, he gives orders to evil spirits and they come out!”

Observation:   Israel had many teachers.  They had rabbis who were expert in knowing what was in the books of Moses.  They had written much on the meaning of the law and on the limitations they claimed the law demanded.  Jesus revealed the hypocrisy of their teachings and lifted many burdens off the people.  His simple stories made points that could not be refuted.  But more than talk, Jesus demonstrated His Heavenly Father’s concern for people by delivering them from demons and healing their physical bodies.  The authority he preached was demonstrated by practical expressions of healing and deliverance!   The people understood this authority.

Application:  For my teaching of God’s Word to have authority, it must have seeable authority in my life; it must affect my actions.  If it does not affect the way I live, how can anyone expect it to affect the way others live?

Prayer:   Lord, I call you Lord in recognition of your authority in my life.  May your Lordship in my life be seen by others too.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!