Luke 10:17-22
17 The seventy (-two) returned rejoicing, and said, "Lord, even the demons are subject to us because of your name."
18 Jesus said, "I have observed Satan fall like lightning from the sky.
19 Behold, I have given you the power 'to tread upon serpents' and scorpions and upon the full force of the enemy and nothing will harm you.
20 Nevertheless, do not rejoice because the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice because your names are written in heaven."
21 At that very moment he rejoiced (in) the holy Spirit and said, "I give you praise, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to the childlike. Yes, Father, such has been your gracious will.
22 All things have been handed over to me by my Father. No one knows who the Son is except the Father, and who the Father is except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him."
This passage shows EXACTLY how Christ works through believers. In this case, he chose 72 disciples, sent them on a mission of preaching and healing, and gave them great power. They returned, triumphant and rejoicing. This process has continued throughout history, and continues even today. So … who are Christ’s disciples today?
John 8:31-32
31 Jesus then said to those Jews who believed in him, "If you remain in my word, you will truly be my disciples,
32 and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
Each and every one of us can be His disciple by believing in Him AND remaining in Him. This is why it is important to study scripture and understand what “remaining” in Christ truly means. Christ may not send us out on a dramatic healing mission, but no doubt, he will do great things through those who truly remain in Him. I’ve had moments in my life where I’ve felt that happening, and I can tell you that the joy is as great as I’ve ever experienced.
