How should believers respond to skepticism about Jesus' divine authority today? Accusations Then and Now Luke 11:15 tells us, “But some of them said, ‘He drives out demons by Beelzebul, the prince of demons.’” • In Jesus’ day, skeptics tried to discredit His miracles by attributing them to demonic power. • Today, skepticism takes new forms—naturalistic explanations, moral objections, or claims that Jesus is mere myth—but the heart issue is the same: denying His divine authority. Remember What Jesus Demonstrated • Luke 11:20: “But if I drive out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.” • John 5:36: Jesus points to “the works the Father has given Me to accomplish” as evidence. • Hebrews 2:4: “God also testified to it by signs, wonders, various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit…” Believers can confidently highlight the historical record of Christ’s miracles and resurrection as God-given proof of His authority. Stand on Scriptural Certainty • 2 Timothy 3:16–17 affirms that “All Scripture is God-breathed…” • Scripture repeatedly declares Jesus’ deity (John 1:1–3, 14; Colossians 2:9). • Rather than chasing every new objection, anchor responses in what is written. Speak the Gospel with Clarity • Acts 17:31: God “has given assurance to all men by raising Him from the dead.” • 1 Corinthians 15:3–4 lays out the core facts—Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose on the third day. • Present these essentials; they carry the Spirit’s convicting power (Romans 1:16). Answer Graciously, Yet Firmly • 1 Peter 3:15: “Always be prepared to give a defense…yet with gentleness and respect.” Practical pointers: – Listen first; understand the real objection. – Respond with truth, not irritation. – Keep Christ’s character visible in tone and attitude. Rely on Spiritual Resources • 2 Corinthians 10:4–5: “The weapons of our warfare are not the weapons of the world.” • Ephesians 6:12–18 calls believers to prayer, the Word, and the armor of God. Skepticism is often spiritual warfare; arguments alone won’t win hearts—Spirit-empowered witness will. Live Out Kingdom Evidence • Matthew 5:16: “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” • John 13:35: Love among believers authenticates discipleship. Consistent obedience, love, and power in everyday life refute charges that Jesus is anything less than Lord. Rest in Christ’s Supreme Authority • Matthew 28:18: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” • Revelation 1:17–18: He is “the First and the Last…the Living One.” Our confidence does not rise or fall with cultural opinion. Jesus still reigns, and His Word still stands. |
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