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Christ's Mission Statement
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughJesus came to set at liberty those who are oppressed. The oppressed are a pitiable group, broken, shattered, crushed, and abused by powerful forces of evil. They have buckled under the strain of domination and the weight of their own sins. Christ's mission is to lift this oppression by defeating the oppressor and forgiving the oppressed's sins, allowing them to begin rebuilding their lives and be free. This liberation is achieved through Jesus' shed blood, enabling those called to choose their own path. The temptation of Jesus and the casting out of an unclean spirit in the same chapter illustrate how Satan and his demons oppress people, keeping them from the truth and compelling them to do their will. Jesus, in contrast, declares His intention to overcome the oppressor and bring freedom to the oppressed.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Stooped Woman (Part One)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe stooped woman in Luke 13:11-16 suffers from a severe physical condition, bent completely forward and unable to straighten herself for eighteen years. Her ailment, described as a spirit of infirmity, stems from a derangement of the nervous system with roots in psychological instability, leading to depression and a harmful curvature of the spine. This condition is influenced by Satan, not through possession but through oppression, affecting her body in a manner akin to Paul's affliction described as a messenger of Satan. Jesus' declaration that she is one whom Satan has bound highlights that Satan's influence enslaves rather than liberates, bowing people down much like sin, sorrow, and suffering. Only God holds the power to set a person free from such bondage. Despite her physical limitations, the woman does not let her infirmity prevent her from attending Sabbath services, demonstrating dedication and faithfulness that ultimately lead to her healing by Jesus in the synagogue.
Islam: Dark Beginnings
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeThe source of the Koran, as believed by Muslims, is that Muhammad received its words directly from Allah while sleeping in the Cave of Hira. Before receiving these words, Muhammad was prepared by a supernatural being claiming to be Gabriel. This being facilitated Muhammad's receptiveness to the messages that would form the basis of Islam. The fundamental nature of this spring is described as bitter, indicating a dark origin and continuation.