Day 41
Today’s reading: John 12:27-50
Believer's Authority
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Believer's Authority 〰️
Reflections
Did Jesus really cast out Satan from this world? The answer is a resounding yes. Satan has been stripped of every rightful authority he once had over God’s people. To fully understand this, we need to go back to the beginning. How did Satan gain authority over this world in the first place? When mankind sinned, humanity lost its dominion to Satan (see Genesis 3, Luke 4:6). As long as sin existed in mankind, Satan had something to hold over us.
But here’s the good news: Christ paid the price for our sin, and the punishment for sin is death. Through His sacrifice, we have been made righteous. We have received a new life, one that is debt-free. Because of this, Satan no longer has authority over us. Colossians 2:15 tells us that Christ triumphed over Satan through the cross, disarming him of all his power. The question is, are you aware of this truth? If you don’t know this, you remain in bondage due to your ignorance. Understanding this victory is key to living in the freedom Christ has won for us.
Study Questions
Why do you think people heard different things in John 12:29? Why was it important for the people to hear the voice in John 12:30?
Who is the "ruler of this world" in John 12:31? Do you believe the world is experiencing judgment at this time? Refer to Romans 1:18 and 28 for further reflection.
How does Jesus’ statement, "I am the Light of the world," contribute to the Johannine theme of His divinity? What does this declaration reveal about Jesus’ divine authority?
What did you learn about God’s nature, His ways and His will from today’s reading?
Highlight
“Father, glorify your name.” Then a voice came from heaven: “I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again.”” John 12:28 ESV
