God the Father sent Jesus into the world for a reason. The Bible says in 1 John 3:8, "For this purpose was the Son of God manifest, to destroy the works of the evil one." Jesus came to destroy the works of the devil. One demon sensed this when he cried out through a man in the synagogue, "Have you come to destroy us?" (Mark 1).
In order to overcome the devil's works, Jesus needed to overcome severe temptation. This he did firstly in the wilderness at the end of his 40 day fast. He did it by saying, "It is written" and following it up with a quotation from God's Word. In this way, Jesus was a model for us when we are tempted with the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, or the pride of life.
Jesus went on to cast out demons wherever he taught. This was his way of demonstrating and advancing the kingdom of God. "If I by the finger of God drive out demons, then the Kingdom of God has come upon you". No demon was ever a match for Jesus.
Jesus then gave power and authority over evil spirits to his 12 key disciples (Matthew 10:1). He sent them out with instructions to cast out demons, taking no money for this service. Later he gave authority to 70, enabling them to do the same works. Finally, after his resurrection, he gave authority to those who believe in His name to drive out demons. This includes you and me, if we believe.
Yet the biggest critical blow against Satan's interests happened paradoxically when it seemed that all was lost. For when Jesus was crucified at the hands of sinful men, undoubtedly Satan thought he had won a great victory. Instead it turned out to be his greatest defeat. For by killing an innocent, sinless man, Satan overstepped his authority. By overstepping his authority, he lost it. Jesus now has all authority in heaven and earth (Matthew 28:18) and when we go in His name, under his instructions, his power and authority is upon us. Now all those who are "in Jesus" escape the domination of Satan. Rather than being condemned to and endless slavery to evil and corruption, true Christians can take authority over the works of the devil and destroy them in Jesus' name, driving Satan and his demons out. Yet the disciple is not greater than his master. If Jesus needed the Word, the Spirit and a strong consecra
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