As he had buoyed in a boat on the Sea of Galilee, Jesus' words brought treasures out into the open air for all the crowds to hear. Among his many teachings were the parable of the Sower, the significance of light, the importance of carefully considering what you hear, the parables of a growing seed and also a mustard seed. Jesus has the authority to teach us the truth; Jesus is good news.
As the cool of that evening had descended, Jesus requested that they cross over the sea to the other side. As these fishermen took their boat further from shore, the gentle breeze began to pick up until it became a fierce gale causing the sea to transformed into choppy high waves which began crashing over and into the boat. Seasoned fishermen were frightened. But Jesus stood up and said, "Hush, be still." Then the waves and the sea obeyed him. Jesus has authority over the forces of nature. Jesus is good news.
On one particular Sabbath day a man possessed by an evil spirit compulsively yelled out as Jesus was teaching. Jesus turned and said, "Be quiet. Come out." Through a final violent contortion, the evil spirit relinquished his demonic control over that man's life. Jesus has authority over the powers of evil. Jesus is good news.
It must have been stuffy in that crowded house in Capernaum where Jesus was visiting. Then the crowd must have been aghast as four men tore a hole in the roof. Through that hole a paralyzed man was let down on a stretcher. But the most amazing events were yet to occur. Jesus not only forgave that man of his sins, but he also healed him. Jesus has authority over physical ailments and the stain of guilt. Jesus is good news.
Hanging on the cross, Jesus once more demonstrated his power over the gripping nature of sin as he told a thief that he would be with him that day in paradise. Jesus has authority over who can enter paradise! Jesus is good news.
Following his resurrection but prior to his ascension Jesus taught, "All authority in heaven and upon earth has been given unto me. Therefore go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to keep everything which I have commanded you; and behold I am with you all of the days until the end of the age." Matthew 28:18b-20 Then with his accession he sat down upon the promised throne of David as both Lord and Messiah. Acts 2:29-36 It truly is good news that Jesus, who now has all authority, is both Ruler and God's Anointed One.
Barry Newton, Copyright © 2001
Other Articles Which Might Be of Interest:
Using a napkin to tell the gospel (Simple diagram illustrating the gospel message)
Jesus speaks in defense of those who belong to him (Title: "The Best Attorney Money Can't Buy")
The authority of Jesus to forgive (Title: "What About the Thief on the Cross")
Jesus - Our Hope For True Freedom (Title: "An American Who is Free At Last")
The Jesus Who Breaks the Status Quo To Care and Confront (Title: "She Met The One From the Manger")