God Proclaims...We Are Forgiven!

Luke 4:34-37 New International Version

34 “Go away! What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!” 35 “Be quiet!” Jesus said sternly. “Come out of him!” Then the demon threw the man down before them all and came out without injuring him. 36 All the people were amazed and said to each other, “What words these are! With authority and power he gives orders to impure spirits and they come out!” 37 And the news about him spread throughout the surrounding area.

Tuesday - February 1

The title, The Holy One of God was also given to Aaron, the first priest and brother of Moses, and Elisha the prophet. But Jesus is the ultimate priest, prophet, and king (“anointed one” - see Luke 4:18). This all-in-one prophet, priest, and king has come to do battle with the enemies of the kingdom of God. How? His word which “possessed authority.” Jesus rebuked the “unclean spirit” and silenced it. Sin is the lie of the devil speaking into our hearts that we are in charge, that we don’t need God’s mercy or that we don’t deserve it. Jesus speaks the authoritative word of the Gospel, which is the forgiveness of sins. This is how the Holy One of God cleanses us: he proclaims that we are forgiven for our sinful rebellion. God’s forgiveness is “the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16).