Rooted in Luke chapter 4, Ryan continues in this theme reminding us what being filled with the power of the Holy Spirit to serve the world.
The summary of this message has been drafted automatically from the transcript. Its accuracy may vary.
The Trumpet in Zion: Redefining Power Through the Way of Jesus
The Lord is sounding a trumpet in Zion, calling forth a “ragamuffin army” of believers to rise up with a renewed expectation for the miraculous and a passion for salvation. However, as we look at the world around us, it is easy to become overwhelmed by the news, social media, and the palpable vitriol on the streets.
Jesus warned in Matthew 24 that the love of many would grow cold due to increased lawlessness. Sadly, many believers are imbibing this worldly anger, allowing animosity to surface rather than fixing their gaze on Christ. But as followers of Jesus, we are called to embody a completely different way: the power of the Spirit to serve and to save.
Here is how the true power of Jesus stands in stark contrast to the power of the world.
1. The Motivation of Power: Love and Compassion
Throughout history, conquerors like Alexander the Great, Caesar, and Napoleon built empires relying on sheer force, control, and the subjugation of humanity. Jesus, however, founded His empire entirely upon love.
The power of the Holy Spirit is not given to us so we can forcefully control others or build our own reputations; it is given out of God’s deep compassion for people. In Luke 4:18-19, Jesus declares His mission:
“The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free…”.
God’s ultimate purpose is freedom for humanity, and the object of His powerful affection is people. We are called to view others not as nuisances or enemies to be fought, but as precious individuals deeply loved by God.
2. The Expression of Power: Selfless Service
The love of Jesus is fundamentally expressed through service. In John 13:1-17, on the night before He was betrayed, Jesus demonstrated the “full extent of his love” by washing His disciples’ feet. He did not selectively serve only those who would benefit Him; He even washed the feet of Judas, His betrayer.
Often, stepping into this kind of biblical love requires a massive interruption to our daily routines and our own plans. I am learning what this looks like right now through my own journey of caring for my two bedridden parents. When my mom’s stroke first happened, I have to admit that having my busy life, pastoral duties, and schedule completely revolving around nappies, medication, and carers was frustrating.
But the Holy Spirit used this to teach me a profound lesson: true, biblical love is an interruption. It isn’t about convenience; it is the absolute privilege of gripping my dad’s hand to say “I love you,” or looking into my mom’s eyes as she sings the only songs she can remember. Love means prioritizing people over our own plans.
3. The Manifestation of Power: Humility and Self-Sacrifice
Though Christ is the Creator of all things (Colossians 1:15-16), He never behaved with self-centered entitlement. Earthly rulers often “lord it over” their subjects, acting with superiority and demanding submission, but Jesus told His followers in Mark 10:42-45 that
whoever wants to be great must become a servant.
— Mark 10:42-45
Jesus’ power was not found in a forceful overthrow of Rome, but in condescending humility. The ultimate culmination of this power was revealed on the Cross.
According to 1 Corinthians 2:6-8, the rulers and demonic powers of this age were caught off guard by Jesus’ humility; had they known the power of His self-sacrifice, they never would have crucified Him. By going to the cross, Jesus cancelled our legal indebtedness (Colossians 2:13-15) and destroyed the devil’s work (1 John 3:8). He conquered darkness not with a sword, but through the ultimate act of suffering and love.
Living the Way of Jesus
When the anointing of the Holy Spirit rests upon us, it removes our selfish options and focuses our lives on one thing: dying to our own reputations for the glory of God and the good of others. To live like me, we must focus on two vital things:
- Relationships:
We must adopt the condescending humility of Christ in our interactions with others, as described in Philippians 2:1-11. - Outreach:
Just as Jesus healed the leper physically, spiritually, psychologically, and socially, we must be deeply mindful of the holistic needs of the broken people around us.
The world operates on self-protection, pride, and shouting on the streets. But the Ragamuffin Army of God operates on love, service, and self-sacrifice. If you are carrying the heavy yoke of sin today, know that Jesus paid the ultimate price to set you free. He invites you to step out of pride, surrender your life, and follow the true King.
