I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you. However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven. Luke 10:19-20
 
 
Firstly, the Lord Jesus says He actually saw Satan fall like lightning (v18). We learned in a previous episode that one implication of this is that whenever we serve God in the name of Jesus, there are deeper repercussions in the spiritual realm. Your ministry is more powerful than you know!
 
Secondly, Jesus assures the disciples that He has given them comprehensive authority over every kind of demonic power-whether its serpentine, scorpion-like or otherwise. You and I must also appreciate this vital truth. Effective Witnesses know their spiritual authority. You and I cannot be effective ministers of the Lord if we are terrified of evil spirits. Don’t underestimate your authority over every kind of evil in the name of Jesus Christ!
 
Thirdly, the Lord Jesus cautions His followers against celebrating their authority over demons at the expense of their eternal life. That means your assurance of salvation is more important to God than your authority over demons. So, although deliverance is important, salvation is infinitely more important. Our ministry must go beyond deliverance from satanic bondage, to ensuring people reach their heavenly destination. Their eternal salvation is more important than their earthly freedom. However successful we may get, let us not neglect or jeopardise our great salvation (Hebrews 2:3).
 
Pastor Josh