3.The Authority Of God's Children by Zac Poonen
Being A Disciple
Summary
Jesus taught his disciples that their true joy should not come from the authority over demons, but from the fact that their names are recorded in heaven. The speaker emphasizes that the devil's power is proven throughout scripture, and Jesus's life and death demonstrated that by being fully surrendered to Christ, believers are impervious to the devil's attacks. Therefore, the only preparation for the uncertain future is leading children to total surrender to Christ's authority.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Authority over the power of the enemyJesus told His disciples returning from ministry that He watched Satan fall from heaven like lightning and gave them authority to tread upon serpents and scorpions without being injured.
Recognizing the reality of spiritual warfareMany people in the world live in fear of the devil and black magic, forgetting that the whole biblical narrative shows how Satan trips up human beings.
The characteristics of Satan's fallJesus saw Satan fall from heaven because of pride, jealousy, discontent, and drawing attention to oneself rather than God, which are all satanic traits.
Living surrendered to Christ's authorityWhen a person surrenders completely to the authority of Jesus Christ, the devil cannot permanently harm them, just as water rolls off a duck's back.
Believing the promises of ScriptureUnlike objective scientific facts, biblical promises like 'nothing shall injure you' require personal faith to become active in a believer's life.
The dignity of being ambassadorsBelievers are ambassadors of Christ and should never act beggarly or compromise their testimony, reflecting instead the royal dignity of a child of God.
Treating every human being with respectA person who truly knows God's authority will never make another person feel small, but will honor all men and preserve their dignity.
Standing unashamedly for ChristChristians must not hide their faith for the sake of promotions or popularity, but should stand firm with spiritual backbone when asked to do wrong.
Highest self-esteem with deepest humilityJesus combined the ultimate self-esteem of knowing the Father gave all things into His hands with the deepest humility of washing His disciples' feet.
The mighty power in the name of JesusBelievers have been given the name of Jesus as a mighty weapon against the harassment of the enemy, granting direct access to heaven's authority.
The true agenda for rejoicingThe ultimate triumph is not having authority over evil, but having God exercise total authority over every area of our hearts, money, and ambitions.Luke 10:19–20
