How should believers respond to Jesus' authority as shown in Matthew 8:32? The Setting of Matthew 8:32 “‘Go!’ He told them. So the demons came out and went into the pigs, and the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the sea and perished in the waters.” • This literal, historical moment occurs after Jesus crosses the Sea of Galilee and is met by two demon-possessed men (vv. 28-31). • One short command—“Go!”—instantly expels a legion of demons, proving that every spiritual power is subject to Him. Jesus’ Authority Displayed • Supreme: His word alone is enough; no struggle, no ritual, just authority (cf. Matthew 28:18). • Immediate: The demons respond at once—no delay, no negotiation. • Sovereign over the unseen: Even the darkest forces cannot resist Him (Colossians 1:16-17). • Verified by visible effect: The pigs’ plunge testifies that the deliverance really happened. How Believers Should Respond 1. Obedient Submission • Like the demons, creation itself recognizes His rule; how much more should His redeemed people. • “Why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I say?” (Luke 6:46). 2. Confident Trust • If Jesus handles legions with a word, He can handle every fear, temptation, or oppression we face (Psalm 27:1). • Cast anxieties on Him, knowing His authority ensures His care (1 Peter 5:7). 3. Active Resistance to Evil • Stand firm in His delegated authority: “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7). • Spiritual warfare is waged in His name, not ours (Ephesians 6:10-11). 4. Whole-hearted Worship • Authority this great belongs only to God; worship is the fitting response (Revelation 5:12-13). • Adore Him for who He is, not merely for what He does. 5. Bold Participation in His Mission • The One who commands demons also commands disciples: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). • His authority guarantees the success of His gospel advance (Acts 1:8). Putting It into Practice • Start each day under His lordship—verbally yield your plans and decisions to Him. • Read Scripture expecting it to instruct, correct, and command—not merely inspire. • When confronted by temptation or fear, speak truth aloud, resting in His power. • Gather with believers to sing, pray, and recount His mighty works, reinforcing corporate worship. • Share the gospel confidently, knowing the One who sends you already reigns over every heart you will meet. Key Takeaways • Jesus’ single word in Matthew 8:32 confirms His unrivaled authority. • Believers honor that authority through obedience, trust, resistance to evil, worship, and mission. • Responding rightly is not optional; it is the natural fruit of recognizing who He truly is. |
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