OVERCOMING THE POWERS OF DARKNESS: INSIGHTS FROM JESUS’ ENCOUNTER WITH THE MUTE. (Luke 11 :14-26).

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In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus casts out a demon from a mute man, enabling him to speak. Instead of rejoicing at the miraculous deliverance, some people attribute Jesus’ power to Beelzebul, the prince of demons. Such a backdrop sets the stage for the teaching of Jesus on the Kingdom of God, spiritual warfare and the consequences of unbelief. 

Jesus’ attitude towards criticism:

In the face of doubters and naysayers, Jesus remains the embodiment of patience and wisdom.  His response is marked by logic, calmness, and authority. He doesn’t get defensive or return the insult. Instead, Jesus uses the criticism as an opportunity to lay bare the absurdity of the allegation against him and shed light on a deeper truth about God’s Kingdom. Jesus’ attitude towards criticism is great lesson for us.

Turning Criticism into Opportunity:

Jesus said: “Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and a divided household falls”. In other words, If Satan’s objective is to oppose the Kingdom of God, why would he empower Jesus to dismantle his own operations? It would certainly be counterproductive. By posing these logical questions, Jesus exposes the inconsistency and irrationality of those criticizing him.

Moreover, by mentioning that others cast out demons in God’s name and asking by whose power they do so, Jesus cleverly places the critics in dilemma. If they claim it’s by God’s power, then why not believe Jesus? If they claim it’s by the devil’s power, they condemn their own.

There is a deep spiritual truth that Jesus reveals to us in this today’s Gospel episode. This is more visible in the Gospel of Matthew where Jesus says: “And so I tell you, every kind of sin and slander can be forgiven, but blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven (…) either in this age or in the age to come” (Mt 12:31-32). Jesus underscores here the gravity of rejecting the clear manifestation of the Holy Spirit. It’s not just about opposing a miracle; it’s about resisting God’s very presence and power in the world.

Demonstrating the Kingdom of God.

The true purpose behind Jesus’ miracles was to demonstrate the reality, power and nearness of the Kingdom of God. By casting out the demon, Jesus showed that the reign of God had been manifested against the dominion of satan. When he declares, “But if it is by the finger of God that I cast out demons, then the Kingdom of God has come upon you”, he is signifying that the powers of darkness are being overthrown by the superior power of God. Jesus binds the devil and plunders what he has stolen. Its an affirmation of Christ’s supremacy over any evil power. And it is this same power that Jesus gave to his disciples while sending them on mission (Luke 10, 17-20).

A warning about neutrality:

Jesus further elaborates on the spiritual warfare theme with the parable of the unclean spirit that leaves a person and later returns with seven other spirits. This illustrates the danger of spiritual vacuums. It’s not enough to merely rid oneself of an evil, one must be filled with the Holy Spirit and constantly connect with God through prayer and works of charity. Thus, we will be able to resist the enemy always.

Conclusion:

Like Jesus, we should not shy away or be afraid of criticisms against our faith but see them as opportunities to elucidate truths about our faith. Our responses should be grounded in wisdom, respect, love and truth.

It is important for us to understand that the battle between good and evil is real. As followers of Christ, we should always keep in mind that when we stand with the Kingdom of God, we stand against the kingdom of darkness. And those who are afraid of light of the truth of the Gospel or who do not know the truth of the Gospel will oppose what we say and do. We can only be victorious and persevere in this battle with the help of the Spirit of God.

 

Prayer for Spiritual Discernment and Strength.

Heavenly Father,

In the face of doubts and criticisms, may we, like Jesus, be filled with Your wisdom and grace. Grant us the clarity to see through the shadows of deception, and the courage to stand firm in our faith.

As we reflect on the battle between light and darkness, remind us that we are not alone. Just as Jesus demonstrated the power of Your Kingdom, empower us to be beacons of Your love and truth in the world.

Lord, protect our hearts from spiritual vacuums. May we always seek to be filled with Your Holy Spirit, drawing close to You through prayer, charity, and acts of service.

In moments of challenge, may we remember that with Your Spirit, we are victorious. Strengthen our resolve to be ambassadors of the Gospel, and guide us to live in alignment with Your Kingdom's purpose.

We make our prayers through Christ our Lord! Amen. 


May God grant you victory over every power of darkness and fill your life permanently with the Holy Spirit!🙏🙏🙏


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