Thursday, October 5, 2023
“When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest; and finding none, he saith, I will return unto my house whence I came out. And when he cometh, he findeth it swept and garnished. Then goeth he, and taketh to him seven other spirits more wicked than himself; and they enter in, and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first” (Luke 11:24-26 KJV).
Who is this man? Why is his last state worse than his first?
Satan certainly did not know everything, but he could study the Old Testament and listen to Father God’s messengers (angels, John the Baptist, the Lord Jesus, the 12 Apostles) to gather that Christ’s earthly ministry was connected to the founding of God’s earthly kingdom. For example, Luke 1:31-33: “And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.”
If God has a holy people working His will in the Earth (Israel), Satan’s plans thus cannot come to pass! What better strategy could Satan employ to prevent God’s earthly kingdom from arising, than render the Jewish people unclean by sending his evil spirits to possess them? Thus, in Matthew through John, there is a sharp increase in devil possession. Satan is opposing the institution of God’s earthly kingdom, Israel’s political revival, the reinstatement of David’s throne.
One major feature of Christ’s earthly ministry is exorcisms. His purpose in working this miracle is revealed in two verses. “But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you” (Matthew 12:28). “But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt the kingdom of God is come upon you” (Luke 11:20—the context of today’s Scripture). When Messiah came, He would indeed “cause… the unclean spirit to pass out of the land [of Israel]” (Zechariah 13:2). Yet, Israel was not ready for Messiah….
Saints, please remember this work of the ministry requires monthly financial support to operate (Galatians 6:6; Philippians 4:16-17; 2 Corinthians 9:6-7). Those who prefer electronic giving can donate securely here: https://www.paypal.me/ShawnBrasseaux. Anyone who wishes to donate by regular mail can visit https://333wordsofgrace.org/contact-us-mailing-address-for-donations/ for details. Thanks to all who give to and pray for us! Unfortunately, since our ministry audience is so large and our ministry staff is so small, I can no longer personally respond to everyone. Thanks so much for understanding in this regard. 🙂
333 Words of Grace 