I’ve heard some accounts here and there of groups in churches that claim to have cast out evil spirits. It usually seemed to involve a number of people praying and commanding and even yelling at the one who appeared to be possessed. Hearing the stories, it always seemed questionable if the person actually had an evil spirit or if it was just a bad habit or addiction. Then if we consider how exorcisms . . . . are presented in movies and on TV – as long rituals and battles against evil – we can’t help but see the difference between all these versions and Jesus’ power.
25 “Be quiet!” said Jesus sternly. “Come out of him!” 26 The impure spirit shook the man violently and came out of him with a shriek. (Mark 1:25-26). It’s so much simpler. A direct command. Just once. And the impure spirit has to obey. Since Jesus has the authority of God, he doesn’t need to add any drama to it.
Jesus is the one we trust. He speaks, and things happen. He has authority to cast out demons, which have a power greater than ours. He has the authority of his Word to turn a human heart around from unbelief to faith. He is the only one who is able to wash away sin and give us a peaceful conscience. He can make death release us to life in heaven.
Be amazed at what Jesus can do, and trust in his words and life for us!