John the Apostle observed a man ministering in the name of Jesus. These actions disturbed John because this man didn’t belong to the group that followed the Lord.
When he said something to Jesus about it, the Lord gave the following response.
But Jesus said, “Don’t stop him! Anyone who is not against you is for you.” Luke 9:50
The verse before the one we just read tells us the activity John observed.
John said to Jesus, “Master, we saw someone using your name to cast out demons. But we told him to stop because he isn’t in our group.” Luke 9:49
I wonder what disturbed John about this man’s actions? I don’t believe it was because of the casting out of demons. Maybe it was because he used the Lord’s name to do it.
How did this person know how to cast out demons out of people? Who taught him to focus on the name of Jesus?
In the next chapter, Jesus sent out 72 people to announce the coming of God’s kingdom. Filled with excitement they offered the following testimony upon their return.
When the seventy-two disciples returned, they joyfully reported to him, “Lord, even the demons obey us when we use your name!” Luke 10:17
Focus on Jesus Because of the Power in His Name
We too must focus on the name of Jesus. Why? Because of the high honor given to Him in the entire universe.
Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names. Philippians 2:9
Also, the Father receives glory when we bow to His name and declare Jesus Lord of all.
That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:10-11
Do you remember the Great Commission Jesus gave to the disciples and us at the end of Matthew 28? First, though, He revealed His authority to make such a commission.
Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Matthew 28:18
Only through the name of Jesus can a person enter into heaven. Fortunately, the scripture makes it clear that salvation is available to everyone.
Jew and Gentile are the same in this respect. They have the same Lord, who gives generously to all who call on him. For “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 10:12-13
Everyone, however, who does not call upon the name of Jesus will not see heaven. They will instead spend eternity separated apart from God.
Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. John 3:18
Focus Your Entire Life
When a person does get saved, they must focus their entire lives around the name of Jesus.
And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father. Colossians 3:17
The Bible offers us so much when it comes to the name of Jesus. The list below contains just of few of those benefits.
- Healing occurs in his name (Acts 3:6).
- We publically baptize in his name (Matthew 28:19).
- We are sanctified and justified in his name (1 Corinthians. 6:11).
- The Father sends us the Holy Spirit in His name (John 14:26).
- When 2 or 3 are gathered in His name, He is present (Matthew 18:20).
- Using His name results in answered prayer and abundant joy (John 16:24).
We must not misuse the name of Jesus or use His name in vain. Even though many freely use His name as a swear word, that freedom will one day cease.
At just the right time Christ will be revealed from heaven by the blessed and only almighty God, the King of all kings and Lord of all lords. 1 Timothy 6:15
John’s Complaint to Jesus
That day John complained about someone ministering in the name of Jesus. Whether John was plagued with jealousy or ignorance, Jesus quickly changed his thinking.
We too must be careful about judging others when they are ministering. Instead, let’s focus on the name of Jesus.
And if you think there may be some issues or problems in the way a person is ministering. Take it to the Lord, just like John did.
Lord, help me to avoid judgment towards others as they minister. I must focus on the name of Jesus because of the power and benefits associated with His name.
Check out these other posts related to focusing.
- Focus On The Progress You Have Already Made
- Focus On Ways To Do Good And To Be Right
- Focus Your Life On The Requirements Of God
Don’t forget to read all of Luke 9.
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