“The Results of Ministry”

Luke 10:17

The seventy-two returned with joy and said, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name.”

 

In Luke 10 we find the story of Jesus sending out a large group of his followers to minister in his name and to proclaim the Kingdom of God.  Their report is summarized in one exclamation in verse 17, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name.”  The seventy-two were jubilant yet astonished at the spiritual power in the name of Jesus.  The extent of the spiritual power is seen in that even the demons submit to the name of Jesus.

If we want astonishing results in ministry, we must learn the power of Jesus’ name.  We go out in the name of Jesus.  We pray in the name of Jesus.  We worship in the name of Jesus.  We see people saved in the name of Jesus.  Lives are changed in the name of Jesus.  All things are possible through him.  James 1:17 teaches us, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” 

The greatest spiritual power in the universe is the name of Jesus.  It is by that name we are saved, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:13)  It is at the name of Jesus that all the nations of the earth will finally acknowledge God, “that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:10-11)   Astonishing ministry results in the power of the Spirit of God are possible in the name of Jesus.

 

QUESTIONS:

1. How do you use the name of Jesus?
2. What type of spiritual results would you like to see in your church?
3. How do you understand God unleashing His power in the name of Jesus?

PRAYER:

• Pray for astonishing results in your church.
• Make your prayers in the name of Jesus.   Why is this important?
• Pray for the people on your prayer list.