The Bible in 2020

Today’s reading

Judges 10-11; Luke 9:1-36

Selected Verses

Will you not possess what Chemosh your god gives you to possess? And all that the Lord our God has dispossessed before us, we will possess. Judges 11:24

And he called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. Luke 9:1-2

Reflections

God has power and authority over all things. This is shown throughout the Bible beginning on the first page of Genesis and it is demonstrated in today’s readings.

Jephthah was a mighty warrior and also a powerful statesman able to argue from history and theology with his enemies, the Ammonites. He made a foolish vow, true, but he is still remembered for his faith in Hebrews 11:32. He was acclaimed because he showed an understanding and confidence in God’s power and authority over all the earth, the peoples, and the nations. With the king of the Ammonites, he argued that God had granted the land to Israel. Since they did not believe in the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, but trusted in Chemosh, they would get what he could give them. History and theology were on Jephthah’s side.

Jesus always was in harmony with the power and authority of His Father. This is obvious as Luke mentions several times that Jesus took time alone to pray. He also gave His disciples the power and authority to preach the gospel and to heal. He sent them out to the villages. They obeyed and reported back to Him.

Israel under God’s authority and power took the Promised Land. Jesus Christ under His Father’s authority was beginning to take Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the end of the earth for the Kingdom of God (Acts 1:8).

Think about it

Christians today may feel oppressed by those who follow other gods, but the God of the Bible is the true and rightful Creator and Lord of all. His power and authority rule over all things. Walk in faith and confidence in Him today. Your faith will soon be made sight when He comes or calls you home.

© 2017 John A Carroll Used by permission

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