Of all the texts I have blogged about, this one is probably the richest in imagery and substance. Demons, Beelzebul, a house divided against itself, and my personal favorite, the image in verse 24 of wandering spirits returning to the house "from which it came."
This teaching point in verses 24-26 reminds me of some TV dramas, such as CSI and Law and Order, which maintain suspense by exploring a sub-plot within the larger story line. Jesus describes what can happen when a spirit has been cast out and seeks another host. Finding none, he returns to his former home (host) and invites others to join him. The conclusion I draw is that once an unclean spirit has left its host, something must fill the void that has been created. If we don't fill it with God's Spirit and his gifts, then it becomes an inviting place for evil to find a home.
Are there people, places, or things filling your vacancies that you would like to change? Or perhaps you are already in the process of cleaning out your house and making some new places that only God can fill. What are you thinking?
Your fellow traveler,
Pastor Paul
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment