Bible Study: Episode V

On Sept 9th we explored several scriptures that are connected within the scope of Episode V of the second season of The Chosen. The episode is called "Spirit" — below is a quick recap of the episode, before we dive into the scriptures.

About Episode V -- WARNING This is the first episode that we feel really needs a parental warning for season two. In this episode we see demon possession in a scarier way than we have seen it on the show in the past. There’s a physical fighting scene that results. Parents should preview this episode beforehand. and may decide to skip a few minutes of this

episode. Within the episode Jesus and John the Baptist reunite for a moment. The disciples see demon possession up close. Simon the Zealot catches up with the disciples and there might be consequences to that.

What you see below are a mix between my Bible Study notes, and some of the reflections from the participants. We still have 3 episodes to watch and many excellent scriptures to explore, I pray that you consider joining us one of these Tuesdays at 2 PM

Scriptures to Explore

Psalm 139; Matthew 8: 14-17: Matthew 10:1-8; Matthew 13:34-35; Mark 3:16-19, Luke 3:1-

20; Luke 4:31-37; Luke 6:7-16

Introduction of our Bible Study

When we look at Jesus' ministry, we often focus on His miracles and teachings, but there's a deeper dimension to explore: the nature of authority. Jesus demonstrated a completely different kind of authority than what the world recognizes, and this has profound implications for how we live our faith today.

What Was the Purpose Behind Jesus' Healing Ministry?

In Matthew 8:14-17, we see Jesus healing Peter's mother-in-law and many others who were sick or demon-possessed. But these healings weren't just random acts of compassion - they served a greater purpose: "He cast out the evil spirits with a simple command, and he healed the sick. This fulfilled the word of the Lord through the prophet Isaiah who said, 'He took our sickness and removed our diseases.'" Jesus' healings fulfilled prophecies that had been spoken centuries earlier. This fulfillment served two critical purposes:

• It established Jesus' identity as the promised Messiah

• It demonstrated that God's word is always true

When God makes a promise, He keeps it. From beginning to end, His word proves reliable. The miracles weren't just about the physical healing but about showing that God is the Alpha and Omega who fulfills what He has promised.

What Does True Authority Look Like in God's Kingdom?

In Matthew 10:1-8, Jesus gave His disciples authority to cast out evil spirits. But what does this authority actually look like? The world typically views authority as being in charge, having power over others, or occupying a position of leadership. Jesus flipped this understanding completely. In His kingdom, authority isn't about being in charge - it's about faithfulness in both big and small things. Even seemingly insignificant tasks like preparing food or serving others carry divine authority when done in obedience to Christ. Authority in God's kingdom isn't about position but about operating under God's direction in whatever God calls.

How Do We Recognize Spiritual Authority?

Demons could recognize Jesus' authority instantly. In Luke 4:33-35, a demon cried out, "I know who you are—the Holy One of God!" Interestingly, demons often recognized Jesus' authority more readily than humans did. True spiritual authority carries the "scent" of holiness - something that evil spirits can detect and find repulsive. This authority doesn't come from religious knowledge or position but from connection to Christ Himself. When we carry Christ's presence, we carry His authority - not because of our own power but because of who lives in us. This is why the "seal of the Lamb" mentioned in Revelation 7:3 is so significant - it marks those who belong to Christ and operate under His authority.

Why Did Religious Leaders Resist Jesus' Authority?

The religious leaders of Jesus' day were "wild with rage" when Jesus healed on the Sabbath (Luke 6:11). Why such hostility toward someone doing good? The issue wasn't the healing itself but that Jesus operated under different rules. The Pharisees had invested their entire lives in understanding and interpreting the law a certain way. Their authority came from their expertise in these interpretations. When Jesus came with a different understanding of God's law - prioritizing compassion over rigid rule-following - it threatened their entire system of authority. They weren't angry about the healing; they were angry about losing control.

How Can We Maintain Our Spiritual Authority?

Spiritual authority requires keeping our focus on Christ rather than on ourselves or our circumstances. When we shift our attention to our own inadequacies or the intimidation tactics of the enemy, we begin to lose our effectiveness. Like Peter walking on water, we can exercise remarkable spiritual authority as long as our eyes remain fixed on Jesus. The moment we look at the waves - our problems, fears, or past failures - we begin to sink. True authority in Christ's kingdom comes not from asserting ourselves but from resting in His power working through us. It's not about being the loudest voice but about speaking His truth with quiet confidence.

What About Women's Authority in Ministry?

It's worth noting that while the Gospels list twelve male disciples, women played crucial roles in Jesus' ministry. Women were the first to announce Jesus' resurrection - making them the first evangelists of the Christian faith. Jesus consistently elevated women in a culture that marginalized them. He taught them, healed them, and entrusted them with important responsibilities. This pattern suggests that spiritual authority in God's kingdom transcends cultural limitations about gender.

Life Application

This week, consider how you might be viewing authority through the world's lens rather than through Christ's. Ask yourself:

1. Am I seeking positions of authority for my own benefit, or am I faithfully serving wherever God has placed me?

2. When facing spiritual opposition, do I rely on my own strength and arguments, or do I stand firmly in Christ's authority?

3. Have I been limiting who can exercise spiritual authority based on human criteria rather than God's calling?

4. In what areas of my life do I need to shift my focus back to Jesus instead of my circumstances?

Remember that true authority in God's kingdom doesn't come from asserting yourself or gaining control over others. It comes from humble submission to Christ and faithful obedience to His direction - whether in big, visible ways or in quiet, behind-the-scenes service.