Hello Church,
What a great passage we have today: Luke 8:1-3, 15-25!
Chapter 8 starts with Jesus preaching the Good News of the Kingdom of God - and His words produced fruit. How do we know? Many women were healed of evil spirits and diseases (vs. 2)! The words of Jesus are powerful!
Jesus says if His word is planted in our hearts, we will bear fruit (vs. 15). The word that produces fruit is like a light that will reveal truth, and be seen by those that come into it (vs. 17 -18; see Psalm 119:105). The key is how we "hear/listen" to the word. Do we listen to produce fruit? Jesus says, those who are really part of His family, and connected to Him, are those who "hear God’s word and put it into practice." (vs. 21) Those who hear the word, receive it, and are faithful with it, will be given more (vs. 18; see Luke 19:26). Jesus is referring to verse 10 - knowing the mysteries of the Kingdom of God. When God reveals His word to us, or a great truth (mystery), what do we do with it (see Colossians 2:2-3). The word of God is powerful; it needs to be put into effect by using it like a sword (Ephesians 6:17).
Here is an example of the power of the word: Jesus calms the storm. Notice how peaceful Jesus is when the storm is raging around Him. He is actually able to sleep. Verse 25 asks the question: "where is your faith"? The implied answer is, "it should be in Jesus who has the power of His word to speak to that storm!" ( See Mark 4:39," Peace! Be still" Psalm 106:9; Psalm 89:9; Isaiah 43:1-3). Faith at least trusts the Author of the word, who is always right there with you, in the boat and in the storm.
The passage today closes with the question: "Who is this? He commands...and they obey" That is the question we must all ask ourselves. Is Jesus God, the living word, who is able to perform His word? His word is so powerful that even creation obeys it. Let me be clear: Jesus is able to call the storms in your life through the power of His word - just ask the women mentioned in verse 2 & 3!
Can I encourage you to read and meditate on all the passages listed here, with the members of your household. As God's children, we need to be sons and daughters who walk by faith in Him and His word.
Be encouraged! Jesus is your storm calmer.
Have a great week!
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