Power and Authority

In Luke 4:31–44, after Jesus is rejected in Nazareth, he goes to Capernaum—not as a retreat, but to fulfill Scripture and begin his mission as the light dawning in darkness. The people are amazed as Jesus teaches and acts with exousia—the power of his authority and the authority of his power. These verses remind us that spiritual opposition is real; believers cannot be possessed, but they can be tempted, deceived, and drawn off course as the enemy twists the truth. Ultimately, Jesus declares that he must preach the good news of the kingdom of God, which is not only about future salvation but about God’s renewing power breaking into the world even now. Therefore, we are called to refocus on Jesus and participate in the restoration and renewal he is bringing.