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| Word Lives 2010-01-24 |
| "Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee" |
| What would you give to be filled with the knowledge of God's truth and goodness? The four gospels point us to the very source of truth itself in the person of Jesus Christ. Luke's gospel, especially his introduction, is somewhat unique among the four gospels. Luke speaks in the firstperson. He addresses his friend, Theophilus, a name which means "beloved of God". In so many words he says, I am writing to you the most incredible story humankind has known. And this story is utterly believable because it comes from reliable firsthand witnesses who knew Jesus personally, heard his teaching, saw his miracles, and witnessed his death, resurrection, and ascension to the right hand of the Father in heaven. The word "gospel" literally means "good news". The gospel is the good news of Jesus Christ and the freedom he has won for us through his death and resurrection. The gospel is God's word for us today! It's is a living word that has power to change and transform lives, and bring freedom and healing to those who receive it as the word of God. Do you want to be changed and transformed by God's living word? Listen to his Son and receive his word with expectant faith and trust.
Luke tells us that Jesus began his public ministry in his own land of Galilee where he was raised as a child. Jesus' first public words in his hometown synagogue amazed both his family and townspeople. It was customary for the president of the synagogue to call on different people each week to read from the Hebrew bible and say a few words. Jesus read the text from the prophet Isaiah that explained how the Messiah would come in the power of the Holy Spirit to bring freedom to those oppressed by sin and evil (see Isaiah 61:1-2). Jesus commented that he himself would fulfill this prophecy. Only a madman or the Messiah would dare to make such a claim! Jesus not only got their startled attention, he awoke in his people fresh hope that God would indeed fulfill his promises to them. Luke tells us that the people received Jesus' words favorably and wondered what would become of "Joseph's son". In Jesus we see the grace of God in action. His gracious words bring hope, joy, and favor to all who were ready to receive him. Are you hungry for God's word?
Jesus came for our sake and for our salvation. He came to set us free from the worst tyranny possible – slavery to sin and the fear of death, and the eternal destruction of both body and soul. God's power alone can save us from emptiness and poverty of spirit, from confusion and error, and from hopelessness and the fear of annihilation. The gospel of salvation is "good news" for us today. Do you know the joy and freedom of the gospel?
"Lord Jesus, you are the fulfillment of all our hopes and dreams. Through the gift of your Holy Spirit you bring us grace, truth, life, and freedom. Fill me with the joy of the gospel and inflame my heart with burning love for you and zeal for your word." |
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