Power in Jesus' name - (Part II)

 (Col 3:17) is one of the secrets of Paul's ministry. He says that we need to do everything, whether in word or actions{works}, in the name of Jesus. The word 'in' is derived from the greek word 'en' which means 'in place of' and it implies 'instrumentality'. So, the name of Jesus is an instrument. The Holy Spirit moves into action at the name of Jesus. When you give a command, "Come out in Jesus name". The command 'Come out' is sealed by the mighty name of Jesus. The devil does not want to leave, yet he has to obey and go. When you pray, "Father in the name of Jesus, I pray......" What it actually means is, "Father in the place of Jesus, I pray..." Are you getting this? We are called to live in the place of Jesus. Adam was created to have dominion over the earth. He lost it when he sinned. Jesus has given us what Adam lost, when Jesus died on the cross and rose again from the dead.

Peter says to the lame man in (Acts 3:6) something beautiful.

Now, hear this out, "Silver and gold I do not have. But, what I have I give to you. Using the instrumentality of the name of Jesus..." Peter knew what he had. Do you know who you are and what you have? As I mentioned earlier, the name of Jesus is an instrument of utmost power. Peter had used the name of Jesus with the other disciples when Jesus sent the seventy. But, this time it was entirely different.

Let me give you an illustration, If Bob dies and his body is brought home. Will the people gathered at the funeral say, "Hey Guys, Bob's here" or will they say, "The body's here". The real Bob i.e. his 'spirit man' is no more in the body (his house). So, whenever Bob is remebered, people will always refer to Bob in the past tense. This is because Bob's dead and gone. But, Jesus is alive today!!

(Hebrews 13:8) - Jesus lives today. He is alive. He is seated at the right hand of God our Father. When we use His name, the Holy Spirit comes to action. There is power in praying in and by the authority of Jesus Christ using His name. He has given you this, consistent with His character, His desire, and His will. It's like when a policeman says, "Stop in the name of the law." The policeman is saying that because he is standing in the place of the law and speaking on behalf of it. To the degree that he speaks for the law, then he can enforce the law and he has authority. When he steps outside of the law, he has lost his authority even though he still says, "Stop in the name of the law."

Therefore, use the name of Jesus, believing that the Father answers when we pray. Command in the name of mighty Jesus and the devil will be compelled to leave. You have the authority to use the name of Jesus, not beacuse you deserve it, not on your own merit, but the merit of the blood of Jesus Christ shed for you.

I know of a world that is sunk in shame,
Where hearts oft faint and tire;
But I know of a Name, a precious Name,
That can set that world on fire:
Its sound is sweet, its letters flame.
I know of a Name, a precious Name,
'Tis Jesus.
--J. Wilbur Chapman

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