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Article Archive |
2008
FREE INDEED!
by Jim Morris
The Lord's Prayer given in Matthew 6:9-15 makes us aware of our ever present need for deliverance. In verse 13, Jesus said, “And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from the evil one.” Peter also warns us about the evil one, “Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8).
Peter learned how dangerous the evil one can be. The church grew rapidly from the good message about Jesus that he preached as God poured His Spirit on Jews (Acts 2) and non-Jews (Acts 10). Even as the church grew, the evil one's men struck back with increasing terror. They killed Stephen who became the first Christian martyr (Acts 7). Then they killed James who became the first Apostle to be a martyr (Acts 12). Now Peter himself was imprisoned in order to be killed for the evil one's pleasure (Acts 12:3).
Could this be the time of Peter's death? Didn't the Lord himself prophesy as much in John 21:18-19? King Herod just killed one apostle so why couldn't he kill another? Imagine Peter's fear as God reveals a dream, deliverance, and doom in Acts chapter 12.
First, envision God's DREAM for Peter (12:1-17). King Herod assigned four sets of four guards to prevent Peter's escape from prison. What a nightmare! Herod's vision for Peter was death. However, God's dream for Peter was life. “So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him” (12:5).
Second, behold Peter's DELIVERANCE from Satan's man (12:6-11). God sent His holy angel to set the captive free. The dark of night, clasp of chains, bars on doors, or armed soldiers could not hinder God's angel. “Quick, get up! . . . Put on your clothes and sandals . . . Wrap your cloak around you and follow me” commanded the angel. Peter obeyed and soon found himself free outside the prison in the middle of the night. Unbelievably, the church's prayers were answered! Deliverance!
Finally, see the DOOM of Satan's man (12:18-25). In his fury, Herod executed the guards who could not hold or find their prey. Then he returned to the political duties that fed his ego. In the end, it was Herod's self glorification that sealed his Doom. God used a public festival for the stage for all to see Him strike down Satan's arrogant man. Doom came upon Herod without warning like a thief in the night.
Sin can bring us into various forms of bondage, too. However, Jesus can set us free. Jesus offers Deliverance! Is anything impossible for God? Jesus promised, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free . . . If the Son sets you free, you will be FREE INDEED” (John 8:31-32, 36).
12-31-08
# 53
