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The kingdom of God was sent out and manifest itself through the power of the 72 that Christ chose. What was their purpose?
“Whatever city you enter and they receive you, eat what is set before you; 9 and heal those in it who are sick, and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’
Luke 10:8-9 NASB
Jesus had sounded the alarm. The kingdom of God has come near to you. City after city would have been tapped with this good news that God’s Son was here. The kingdom was near. No one knows how long this mission lasted, but at the end, the report was given.
The seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name.”
Luke 10:17 NASB
This mission produced joy in Christ’s followers as they were empowered by Jesus with bold acts that surpassed even demonic powers. The people rejoiced in the fact that through Christ, the demons were subject to them. However, look at what Jesus says next.
And He said to them, “I was watching Satan fall from heaven like lightning. 19 “Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing will injure you. 20 “Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are recorded in heaven.”
Luke 10:18-20 NASB
In some ways, the 72 may have become prideful in their actions. Jesus reminds them that Satan himself fell victim to this attitude and was cast out of heaven like lightning. “I have given you authority…” Jesus then reminds them. It’s not you, it’s Me! And through me, He says, you are protected. The same power that cast Satan out of heaven is the power that enables you to tread on scorpions and serpents.
However, my favorite part of this story is found in verse 20. The joy was not to be found in the works. Christ reminds them that the reason for all of this is the good news being proclaimed. The miracles, healings, signs and wonders all point to the message. They point to Jesus. Do not rejoice in the works, but rejoice in the fact that your names are recorded in heaven.
I know many people today that put the emphasis on the acts. They boast about being able to do great works in the name of Christ, or about how His power has manifest itself in their life. The real source of joy is not the power of Christ or His gifts, but rather, the sacrifice paid at the cross so that we can be saved for eternity.