A few years ago an ad featured a man performing surgery. As he gave closing instructions to the attending staff it was discovered that he wasn’t really a surgeon at all. The man replied, I know, but I did sleep at a Holiday Inn Express last night. The commercial ends with the tag line, It won’t make you smarter. But you’ll feel smarter.

Not everyone who claims authority can back it up. I tend to distrust those who push themselves forward, at least until I see some evidence for their self-proclaimed expertise. As Jesus burst upon the scene people held similar views.

When teaching in Capernaum, a crowd sat amazed at his authoritative nature. Then a deeply troubled man entered the room, and the demon within him cried out, Ha! What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God (even the demons knew him and shuddered).

After sending the demon to the abyss, the people in attendance marveled at Jesus. What is this word? For with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and they come out!

Notice the listeners did not comment on Jesus’s demeanor or delivery or looks or entertainment value. No comments on style or clothes. Instead, dominance rumbled through the synagogue. A simple rebuke tore a demon from a human soul. What is this word?

The teachings of Jesus still carry authority. You and I can access them today. Read the Gospels and ponder his words. Listen to them through your headphones. Better yet, say them out loud. Jesus spoke and the demon fled. Give attention to the words of Jesus and see what demons slip from your life.

Luke 4:31-37

Photo by Jon Tyson