What Jesus Did! 'Binding the Strong Man' — Matthew 12:27-29

Friday, June 11, 2021

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[Jesus continued his reply to the Pharisees who said his power came from Satan:] "And if I am empowered by Satan, what about your own exorcists? They cast out demons, too, so they will condemn you for what you have said. But if I am casting out demons by the Spirit of God, then the Kingdom of God has arrived among you. For who is powerful enough to enter the house of a strong man and plunder his goods? Only someone even stronger — someone who could tie him up and then plunder his house."
— Matthew 12:27-29 NLT

Key Thought

Jesus' power over demons, disease, and death is a reminder that he comes in the power of the Kingdom. His ministry is the power of the Kingdom dawning in people's lives and a foretaste of Jesus' eternal rule as Lord and Savior. He has entered the strong man's house and tied up the strong man. He has plundered the strong man and liberated those the strong man had bound and headed for hell. His power is real and righteous. His power is unleashed to liberate us. It is now time for us to proclaim him Lord, not just Lord of our lives, but Lord of all! To him go all majesty, glory, honor, and power. To him belongs the victory forever. To him we bow our knees and surrender our hearts.

Today's Prayer

Holy God, you alone are God. Through your Son you have liberated me from law, sin, death, and Satan. I place my life and my future in your hands. I praise you for your grace and power. I praise you for your love and mercy. I praise you for your sacrifice and strength. I praise you for Jesus Christ, my Lord and Lord of all. In his name, the Lord Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Matthew 6:13
  • 1 Corinthians 15:23-25
  • Ephesians 6:10-13

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Illustration

Illustration of Matthew 12:27-29 NLT — For who is powerful enough to enter the house of a strong man and plunder his goods?

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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