HFF.CHURCH

The Disciples have come back from their great “mission trip” and now Jesus encourages them to take rest. Yet they are recognized and about five thousand flock to them. Jesus has compassion and teaches them. Yet when there is a need for food the Disciples are unable to feed them. Instead, Jesus multiplies fish and loaves and feeds everyone until they are content. The Disciples go ahead in the boat and Jesus spends some time in prayer. He then catches up to them while they are struggling to cross by walking on the water. The disciples didn’t understand or have faith, which is compared against those who come to Him for healing who do believe.

Can casting out demons actually make your spiritual condition worse? Jesus' shocking parable in Matthew 12 reveals why deliverance without repentance leaves you more vulnerable than before. An empty spiritual house is an invitation for seven demons to move in. Are you focusing on removing the negative while forgetting to fill the space with God's presence?

After His rejection at Nazareth Jesus anoints the Disciples and sends them out. He gives them authority over demons and demonic powers. They must trust God for their provisions, not taking money, food, extra clothing, or provisions. They are only allowed to carry a staff (weapon). If they are rejected on this mission they must shake off the dust from their feet which we will see had significant meaning in their culture. And so the Apostles did go out, calling everyone to repent. The people responded with faith and many were healed and demons were cast out. Lastly we see the memory of the death of John the Baptist.

The religious leaders had seen Jesus heal the sick, raise the dead, and cast out demons. Yet they still demanded more signs. Why? Because the problem wasn't lack of evidence - it was unwillingness to surrender control. The violent city of Nineveh repented without seeing a single miracle, while these leaders refused to change despite witnessing thousands. What areas of your life are you keeping off-limits to God's lordship?