What Jesus Did! 'I'm the Stronger Man' — Mark 3:22-27

Monday, February 22, 2016

And the teachers of the law from Jerusalem said, "Beelzebul (the devil) is living inside him (Jesus)! He uses power from the ruler of demons to force demons out of people." So Jesus called them together and talked to them using some stories. Jesus said, "Satan will not force his own demons out of people. A kingdom that fights against itself cannot continue. And a family that is divided cannot succeed. And if Satan is against himself and fights against his own people, then he cannot continue. That would be the end of Satan. If a person wants to enter a strong man's house and steal his things, first the person must tie the strong man. Then the person can steal the things from the strong man's house.
— Mark 3:22-27 NLT
Illustration of Mark 3:22-27 NLT — "Beelzebul (the devil) is living inside him (Jesus)! He uses power from the ruler of demons to force demons out of people."

Key Thought

Jesus makes it clear that his ability to cast out demons comes from one source: he is more powerful than the demons could ever imagine him to be. They can't stand up to his presence and power. Jesus is stronger than demons and demonstrates it again and again.

Today's Prayer

Father, I trust in Jesus' power to save from all forms of evil, sin, and bondage. I open my heart to let him reign over my emotions and desires. I open my mind so that he can purify, redeem, and control my thoughts. I open my soul so that he can rule in every area of my being. Thank you for sending your Son as my Savior, my Lord, and my Almighty King. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Matthew 28:18-20
  • Colossians 1:11-14
  • Hebrews 2:17-18

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did is a one-year devotional guide through the gospels, using one short passage each day and following the Gospel in consecutive order. Each devotional consists of a passage, reflection and a prayer which opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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