Why is it crucial to be known by Jesus, as seen in Acts 19:15? Acts 19:15 in Focus “ But the evil spirit answered, ‘Jesus I know, and I recognize Paul, but who are you?’ ” The Scene and Its Shock • Seven sons of Sceva attempt to cast out a demon “by the Jesus whom Paul preaches.” • The demon flatly declares he knows Jesus and is acquainted with Paul—but not them. • The result: the men are overpowered, stripped, and shamed (Acts 19:16). What “Known” Means Here • The demon acknowledges the supreme authority of Jesus. • He also recognizes Paul because Paul is in vital union with Christ (Galatians 2:20). • “Known” conveys relational authority, not mere awareness. Why It’s Crucial to Be Known by Jesus • Authentic spiritual authority flows only from personal union with Christ (John 15:5). • Demonic forces submit to those whom Jesus authorizes (Luke 10:17–20). • Borrowed formulas and second-hand faith collapse under spiritual pressure. • At final judgment, relationship—not résumé—matters: “I never knew you; depart from Me” (Matthew 7:23). • Eternal life itself hinges on being known by the Shepherd (John 10:14, 27–28). The Marks of Those Jesus Knows • Repentant faith: turning from sin and trusting His finished work (Acts 3:19; Romans 10:9–10). • New birth evidenced by the Spirit’s indwelling (John 3:3–8; Romans 8:9). • Ongoing obedience and love for His word (John 14:21; 1 John 2:3–5). • Bold yet humble authority over darkness, exercised in His name, not as a formula (Mark 16:17; Acts 16:18). Living in the Confidence of Being Known • Stay rooted in daily communion with Christ through Scripture and prayer (Colossians 2:6–7). • Walk in the Spirit, not in self-reliance (Galatians 5:16). • Serve from identity, not for identity—secure in being “found in Him” (Philippians 3:9). To stand firm against evil and to stand accepted before God, it is essential not merely to know about Jesus but to be truly, personally known by Him. |
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