Exploring God’s Word with Brad Thurston

Signs and Destinations Luke 10:8-20

Episode Summary

Signs point us in the right direction in order to arrive at the right destination. Signs are not the destination.

Episode Notes

Introduction:  The purpose of signs

            Show direction, help us arrive at the correct location

            They are not the destination.  You do not stand and stare at signs, but you are grateful for them!

            In Mark 16:17 it says, these signs will follow those who believe: like the wake of a boat.  But the wake is not the destination of the boat!  Ferry to Southport and the birds!

Read Text

Who is being sent?

1. not those with degrees, power, influence, riches, or fame, but but those who spent time spent getting to know Jesus
2. 35 Teams to 35 places Jesus is coming to

The instructions for being sent: 

1. Time is of the essence to reach these areas, they are on their way to Jerusalem
2. Abide by customs, go where invited
3. Give peace, and stay there
4. Trust me for your provisions
5. Heal the sick
6. Announce the arrival of the King
7. Leave the Preparation and the Results up to God

The Results of being sent, especially if not received

1. The Woes and the Judgement (hades and hell as opposed to heaven – all as a different dimension in eternity)
2. The Signs are intended to lead to REPENTANCE!!!
3. More bearable for ignorant foreigners than for those who ignored the signs!
4. Being granted authority – amazing authority!
5. Question to them and us, do we believe that?

The Return of the 70

1. Rejoicing over the defeat of the enemy – giving Jesus the credit by using his name, but at the same time risking pride in the doing of the signs.
2. No shaking the dust off, but the results of preparing the way for Jesus was successful!
3. The power of defeating Satan, and the removal of all fear, both actual and metaphorical (Paul and the snake) more like the snake description in the Garden
4. The object of rejoicing is in the destination, and not in the signs!

Conclusion

1. The clarity of the proclamation of the Kingdom of God brings results: 
2. The effects (signs) are the result of God’s action - not by us but for us
3. The defeat of Satan is a complete matter, both excluded from heaven and soon banished forever after this trip to Jerusalem. see Romans 16:20: “The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. 
4. The eternal effects of believing the Gospel far outweigh any persecution in the temporal world we may face in the proclaiming and faith stance we must take.