Lord Over the Sea's Warriors (Luke 8:22-39)

Jesus overcomes the storm showing that the Lord of life is the Lord who is the Word that ordered this creation. The abyss of the sea will not overpower Christ's word. The disciples are to see that their faith and confidence is not a sentimental thing. It is rather having a heart tuned into the conviction that the Lord prevails.

Christ moves to the other side of the sea he encounters a mock incarnation. This is a man possessed by evil spirits showing death rather than life. Christ shows once again that the word of Lord is more powerful than the Satanic legion. The demons demonstrate that their kingdom is one of death. Christ merely gives a command to free the man. The unclean spirits run into the abyss on their terms destroying the unclean animals.

We are encouraged to trust in Jesus' authority in our own lives, to seek His transforming power in our struggles, and to live out our faith boldly, knowing Jesus has power over all circumstances.

Obtuse Outsiders (Matthew 8:28-34)

When Christ goes outside the land we would expect Christ to be embraced with open arms, but that is not the case. In fact, Christ encounters satanic forces, and then the men of the city affirm the satanic rebellion. What does this tell us about the status of man? What does this tell us about man’s nature desire for God? What does this tell us about the grace of Christ?