Advent Devotional 2021
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Then Jesus returned to Galilee, filled with the Holy Spirit’s power. Reports about him spread quickly through the whole region. He taught regularly in their synagogues and was praised by everyone.
Luke 4:14-15 (NLT)
Luke 4:14-15 (NLT)
In Chapter 3, Jesus is baptized, verbally blessed by God, and touched by the Holy Spirit like a dove. In Chapter 4, Jesus is tempted by Satan, declares His purpose in Nazareth, heals many, and begins to preach the Good News.
Jesus’ humanity is tested by the temptations of Satan. Each time Jesus does not call on the power of God, but relies on the Word of God. Each response to Satan begins, “. . . the Scriptures say . . . ” As we are tested, let us remember to rely on Scripture.
In the synagogue at Nazareth Jesus says, “The Spirit of the Lord has anointed me to bring the Good News . . .” Jesus is declaring the purpose of his birth and life on earth. He came at Christmas to bring the Good News. Chapter 4 is the beginning of his preaching ministry.
Jesus is not just a gentle soul with many words of wisdom. He has power and authority. The people were as drawn to the authority of his teaching as to the power of his healing. They were taught about the Kingdom of Heaven as never before. They witnessed a healing power that could cure any affliction.
At the end of Chapter 4, Jesus says, “I must preach the Good News of the Kingdom of God in other towns, too, because that is why I was sent.” The Good News of Jesus’ birth is not just for Bethlehem, or Nazareth, or Israel. The Good News is for all people, in all places, for all time.
Duane H.
Jesus’ humanity is tested by the temptations of Satan. Each time Jesus does not call on the power of God, but relies on the Word of God. Each response to Satan begins, “. . . the Scriptures say . . . ” As we are tested, let us remember to rely on Scripture.
In the synagogue at Nazareth Jesus says, “The Spirit of the Lord has anointed me to bring the Good News . . .” Jesus is declaring the purpose of his birth and life on earth. He came at Christmas to bring the Good News. Chapter 4 is the beginning of his preaching ministry.
Jesus is not just a gentle soul with many words of wisdom. He has power and authority. The people were as drawn to the authority of his teaching as to the power of his healing. They were taught about the Kingdom of Heaven as never before. They witnessed a healing power that could cure any affliction.
At the end of Chapter 4, Jesus says, “I must preach the Good News of the Kingdom of God in other towns, too, because that is why I was sent.” The Good News of Jesus’ birth is not just for Bethlehem, or Nazareth, or Israel. The Good News is for all people, in all places, for all time.
Duane H.
Prayer focus: Sharing the Good News with others
Community prayer focus: Churches in Modesto
Community prayer focus: Churches in Modesto
