Week 1, Day 3
January 5, 2022 Scripture: Mark 3 Binding the Strong Man and doing the will of God. Is Jesus working with Satan? How is he performing all of the miracles? By what power is this happening? This question was on the minds of the people who are observing Jesus’ ministry. As they begin to process, say out loud, or even just think, “He’s doing this by the power of Satan.” But Jesus is clearly doing battle with the kingdoms of darkness. Jesus is healing and helping, not hurting and harming. So if he is in cahoots with Satan, well, that’s a really bad plan. A house divided, cannot stand. Jesus directs his detractors with a simple parable of binding the strong man. In order to ransack the house, you first have to tie up the owner. Jesus’ ministry, in large part, is binding up the evil one. His hands are tied. Jesus offers forgiveness and healing. That which is threatening life and livelihood, Jesus is healing. Mark couples this teaching with this moment where Jesus’ family is coming to be with him. The disciples mention that his family is right outside the door. He uses the opportunity to teach them who his family really is. “Whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother” (3:34). Jesus’ ministry is to make everyone family. To bring all people in as his brother, sister and mother. He’s bound up the strong man, to ransack his store houses. It’s not money he’s after, it’s hearts. It’s people and lives. Jesus says, “Truly I tell you, people will be forgiven their sins.” He’s inviting you into a life with him, as his family. The strong man is bound, you are the riches he’s after. What about the unforgiveable? I’ve spent time with folks who have felt like they perhaps have committed the unforgiveable sin of blaspheming the Holy Spirit. What I usually say is, “If you are concerned that you blasphemed the Spirit, you probably haven’t.” What I mean is, your heart is tender to the word and Spirit of God. You are listening to the Spirit and seeking the heart of God. If you reject God, then your sin probably isn’t forgiven, whatever it is, blasphemous or not. If you are interested though, in becoming a part of the family of God, and are seeking the will of God – well you’re on the right track. Keep it up. Keep seeking Christ and the will of God. Grace and peace Jordan
1 Comment
Renee Long
1/5/2022 08:51:26 am
The first time I heard about a “ house divided against itself” was as an elementary student reading about Lincoln, who quoted it r/t the nation divided over slavery. Idk then it was something Jesus said. Wonder how many of our politicians could quote the Bible nowadays.
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AuthorJordan Ickes, Minister of Etna Green Church of Christ. Archives
December 2022
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