Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
September 21, 2023: SOAP #5040: Daniel 7-8; Psalm 137; Luke 4

SCRIPTURE:  Luke (NIV) 4:42 At daybreak Jesus went out to a solitary place. The people were looking for him and when they came to where he was, they tried to keep him from leaving them. 43 But he said, “I must preach the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns also, because that is why I was sent.”

OBSERVATION:  In this chapter we see that Jesus spoke with authority. (vs: 36)   He quieted demons and commanded them to come out. (vs: 35, 41)   He rebuked a fever which left immediately. (vs: 39)   Of course the people in this community would want him to stay with them, but He had to be obedient to the authority that sent him.  He did not have authority so that he could do what he wanted to do, or do what others wanted him to do.  Jesus, living as a man on earth, had authority because he was submitted to the authority of His Father in heaven.   The Father had sent Jesus for a purpose.  He had an assignment.   “Sent” is a common word Jesus uses to describe Himself.

APPLICATION:  Only God has authority because He is worthy.  Any authority I have is delegated authority.  My obedience increases my authority.  If I have trouble being under authority, I will have trouble being in authority.  I am also on a mission; I have also been sent. (John 20:21)

In this chapter we see the work of the Holy Spirit in Jesus.  I need the Holy Spirit helping me read God’s word.  I need the Holy Spirit helping me recognize God’s voice.  I need the Holy Spirit enabling me to fulfill the assignment God has given me.  I need the Holy Spirit to do His work through me.

PRAYER:  Jesus, may I live in such obedience to you that my words are trustworthy and faithful.  May I walk under AND in your authority!  Amen

Pastor Leon
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