From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and the violent take it by force. Matthew 11:12
Where did we get the idea that faithfulness is the same as weakness? Jesus taught no such foolishness. His words and life continually displayed the very power of God as Jesus confronted the Enemy, confounded His critics, and endured remarkable hardships for the Kingdom.
Modern teachers prefer to portray Him as little more than Mr. Rogers with a beard, but the real Jesus of Nazareth displayed ferocious strength and courage. He conquered demons, cleansed the Temple, even faced hostile crowds in Gethsemane. It is this Second Adam brimming with power and vitality who earned the love and admiration of gruff fishermen from Galilee, not some weak-spined pushover.
Jesus demonstrated how living in the Kingdom of Heaven is not for the faint of heart, even courageously embracing the cross to forever destroy the power of sin, death, and the devil for our sakes. Today, bold disciples filled with the Spirit of Christ continue to claim His abundant power to violently demolish every stronghold that does not belong in our hearts and our lives. “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” 2 Timothy 1:7
Holy Jesus, help me live boldly today in Your power. In Your Name I pray. Amen.
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