Tuesday 27th May
Read Luke 9:1-2
“When Jesus had called the Twelve together, he gave them power and authority to drive out all demons and to cure diseases, 2 and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal those who were ill.” (NIVUK)
Do you ever read the gospel narratives and wonder why Jesus gave the Twelve power to drive out all demons and cure diseases but that He didn’t then give that same power to everyone who believes in Him? Wouldn’t it be altogether easier to proclaim the kingdom of God if demons bowed before us and hospitals weren’t needed because people could come to church instead?
Although there are likely many answers to that question, the two that immediately spring to mind are as follows. First, Jesus was emphasising that the mission of the disciples was directly in line with His mission. Jesus has been modelling precisely that in all of His activities up to that point – and He is preparing them for what will soon take place in Jerusalem. Second, as we will read over the next month, the disciples don’t exactly handle this power and authority particularly well. Perhaps part of the reason this all-encompassing graciously given power is restricted now is for our own good?
Only in clinging closely to Jesus is temptation kept at bay.
