Mark 1:21-28

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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS

Our Lord's Power Over the Demonic Realm

Why were the listeners astonished when Jesus spoke?
Can demons inhabit religious places?
A supernatural display of power is always of God. T/F?
Demons are orthodox in their beliefs. T/F?
Why did the Lord silence the demons? Do demons have to submit to the authority of Christ?
Does belief alone save someone?
Can we speak with authority by God's word?

Our Lord taught with authority, with the word of God, as opposed to the teaching of the scribes, who would quote rabbinic opinions.
Yes. The man in this account was not in a bar, but in a synagogue. It can happen today. Satan infiltrates the church. Demons deceive and slip into the midst of God's people. See 2 Corinthians 11:14 and 1 Timothy 4:1.
It might be Satanic, rather than of God. See 1 John 4:1.
Yes. They knew who Jesus was (Mark 1:24) and that He is God. They have no problem believing that God is Creator or that He exists.
He did not want people coming to Him because of demonic testimony. Yes, demons must submit to the authority of Christ. He spoke but a word, and the demons obeyed.
No. The demons believe and tremble, but that doesn't save them. See James 2:19.
Yes. The Lord didn't quote others’ opinions. He quoted God's word. We don't have to quote other people, but we can speak with authority from the word of God.

Recall a time when you were healed physically, and think of the accompanying hurt. Was it worth it?
Think of someone you know who is hurting physically. How can you help?

Recall a time when you were healed spiritually, and the hurt involved. Try to help someone you know who is hurting spiritually.

"They were astonished at Jesus' teaching, for He taught them as one having authority..." (Mark 1:22)