Sunday Preview: Jesus: King and Redeemer

Throughout December, we've explored the kingdom of God and the King who reigns over it—Jesus, God in the flesh. As we reflect on His incarnation, we see the culmination of God’s redemptive plan to save humanity and establish His kingdom in the hearts of His people. Jesus, the great “I AM,” is not only our Redeemer but also the King who exercises divine power over sin, spirits, Satan, and even death itself.

Jesus’ Power Over Sin
In Mark 2, we encounter a striking moment in Jesus’ ministry. A group of men brings a paralyzed friend to Jesus, demonstrating their faith through their persistent efforts. Instead of healing the man immediately, Jesus does something unexpected: He forgives his sins. This pronouncement shocks the onlookers, particularly the religious leaders, who silently question Jesus’ authority to forgive sins—a power only God holds.

Jesus confronts their doubts by asking, “Which is easier: to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up, take your mat, and walk’?” To prove His authority, Jesus commands the man to rise, and he walks away healed. This visible miracle underscores an invisible truth: Jesus has the power to forgive sins. By healing the paralytic, He proves His divine authority to cleanse the soul, demonstrating that He is not just a healer but the Savior of humanity.

Jesus’ Power Over Spirits
In Luke 4, Jesus confronts a demon-possessed man in a synagogue. The demon, recognizing Jesus, cries out in fear, acknowledging Him as the “Holy One of God.” In a simple yet powerful rebuke, Jesus silences the demon and commands it to leave.
Unlike any other, Jesus demonstrates absolute authority over spiritual forces. His ability to cast out demons effortlessly shows that He is more than a teacher or prophet—He is the King whose reign extends to the spiritual realm. The demon’s recognition of Jesus reinforces His identity as the divine Savior who has come to liberate people from the grip of evil.

Jesus’ Power Over Satan
As Jesus approached the cross, He spoke of His authority over Satan, the “ruler of this world.” In John 14:30, He boldly declares that Satan has no power over Him. This confidence stems from Jesus’ sinless life; there is no accusation Satan can bring against Him.

When Jesus willingly goes to the cross, it may seem like a moment of defeat, but it is, in fact, a decisive victory. As Hebrews 2:14 explains, through His death, Jesus breaks Satan’s power over humanity and defeats the fear of death. Jesus’ triumph at the cross reveals that He is the King who not only confronts evil but ultimately overcomes it, ensuring eternal hope for those who trust in Him.

Jesus’ Power Over Death
The ultimate demonstration of Jesus’ power is His victory over death. In John 2:19, Jesus foretells His resurrection, declaring, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it up in three days.” His words point to His body, which, though crucified, would rise again in triumph.
Jesus’ resurrection is not only proof of His divinity but also the foundation of the Christian hope. As He says in John 10:17, “I lay down my life so that I may take it up again.” His power over death confirms His identity as the King who offers eternal life to all who believe in Him.
How Will You Respond to the King?

In the Garden of Gethsemane, when the mob came to arrest Jesus, He asked, “Who is it that you’re seeking?” Upon hearing His declaration, “I am he,” they fell to the ground. This reaction highlights the proper response to the King: reverence, fear, and ultimately, worship.

Jesus, the great “I AM,” calls us to recognize His power and authority. He forgives sin, defeats evil, and conquers death. The question remains: How will you respond to Him? Will you bow in worship and surrender to His reign, or will you reject the King who came to save?

As we reflect on this season and the significance of Jesus’ incarnation, let us honor Him as our Savior and King. Fall on your knees, worship the One who reigns with all power, and experience the blessings of His eternal kingdom.

Questions:

1. Why was it significant that Jesus first forgave the paralytic’s sins before healing him? What does this reveal about his authority?
2. How does Jesus’ confrontation with the demon in Luke 4 demonstrate His authority and identity as the Holy One of God?
3. What do you find inspiring about Jesus’ statement in John 14:30, “The ruler of the world has no power over me.” What does this tell you about His victory over sin and evil?
4. How does Jesus’ resurrection validate his claim as the King and Redeemer?
5. Reflecting on the mob’s reaction to Jesus in John 18:6, how should we respond to the realization that Jesus is the I AM and King over all?

OPENING / WELCOME
Eric Renegar
SONG LEADER
Roy Pyle
PRAYER OF PRAISE
Bob Hoopes
LEAD LORD'S SUPPER
Paul Braden
 ASSIST LORD’S SUPPER
Jeremy Price
Jim Rutter
Nathan Armstrong
Ben Baker
SCRIPTURE READING
Rich Jacobs
John 18:1-9
PREACHING
Matthew Allen
CLOSING PRAYER
Russ Robins
CLOSING COMMENTS
Mark Ringle
WELCOME CENTER
Diann Coffman / Taylor Robins
USHERS
Roger Robins / Randy Mullins
SONG DEVOTIONAL
Rich Walker
COMMUNION PREP
Jeri Hastings
CLOSING THE BUILDING
Josh Childers