It is perhaps a generalism that there is a high expectation and reports of demonic possession in non-Western contexts. There may be a couple of reasons for this. First, that we see what we expect to see. Western-secular societies are more likely to see events and phenomena through that lens and so provide natural explanations. … Continue reading Dealing with demons and demonic posession today
Tag: Satan
Spiritual warfare: The devil, demons and proxies
Iran has exercised a significant threat and influence around the world, far beyond its actual political, economic and military might. The country is a significant military power in its own right. However, much of its influence is indirect through proxies, Hezbollah, Hamas and The Houtis. Similarly, Al Qaeda primarily relied on influencing people to carry… Continue reading Spiritual warfare: The devil, demons and proxies
The true and better story (Luke 11:14-54)
Here’s my outline for a sermon this Sunday. Look out for some articles with additional comment. You can listen to the full talk here introduction Two stories When the stories get muddled …. Which story are we living by? What did Jesus’ opponents think he was doing? (v15) What does Jesus say is happening? (v22)… Continue reading The true and better story (Luke 11:14-54)
Defeating the strongman: When Jesus confronts the Devil’s kingdom
This Sunday we are tackling Luke 11 in church. We cannot cover all the spin off issues in detail. So, here’s a few videos picking up on what we can know about the Devil and demons.
Talking up the threat (more reflections on responding to the riots)
I’m writing on Thursday morning. Last night there was a lot of nervousness about potential further riots and disturbances around the country. I’m encouraged that the night seems to have passed off fairly peacefully. I’m not sure though that I share the optimism of the media or Christian leaders that a far right mob was… Continue reading Talking up the threat (more reflections on responding to the riots)
The enemy
When Esther goes to King Ahasuerus to plead for her people, he asks who is responsible for the planned atrocity against them. He will of course know about Haman’s law but perhaps hasn’t yet connected Esther with the Jews. Esther explains that the one responsible is: An adversary and enemy! This vile Haman!”[1] Earlier we… Continue reading The enemy
Honouring the enemy
After honouring Mordecai, Ahasuerus goes on to honour another man, Haman. He is appointed to high office and the people are commanded to bow did to him and pay him homage. Mordecai refuses and this is picked up on by palace officials. They also pick up on the fact that he is Jewish. Why does… Continue reading Honouring the enemy
Failure
Satan has launched at attack on Eden, seeking to tempt Adam and Eve to disobey God’s one command, he casts doubt on God’s truthfulness and goodness. How will they respond? Read Genesis 3:5-8 The woman observes three things about the fruit. It looks good, it is suitable food – suggesting it is likely to taste… Continue reading Failure
Demons and Pigs (Mark 5:1-20)
Why does Jesus permit a legion of demons to leave a human being and possess pigs? Jesus and the disciples have crossed Galilee and on the other side, they find a man who is possessed by many demons so that he’s been given the nickname Legion. The demons bring with them superhuman strength so that… Continue reading Demons and Pigs (Mark 5:1-20)
On Tank battles – you don’t have to fight on the enemy’s terms
When the Russian invasion of Ukraine began, this video clip of Boris Johnson arguing with Tobias Elwood about defence spending was circulated. For the record, I think Elwood has a point re defence spending in general. I’m also not convinced that Boris engages that point fairly or fully. However, the reason that the clip did… Continue reading On Tank battles – you don’t have to fight on the enemy’s terms
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