Sermon Application Questions

Rod talked about authority in ancient times meaning the "laying on of hands;" Jews believed the laying on of hands passes the authority of Moses from generation to the next generation.
In Matthew 21:23 the leaders ask Jesus, "who gave you this authority?" and he only responds with the question, "was John's baptism from God or from man?"

• When he says this, who is he saying his authority comes from?
• Why is it important where Jesus gets his authority?

Rod pointed out that when the kingdom of God is breaking through, there is an "anti-kingdom." What are some things in our world that are anti-kingdom?

In Ephesians 6:12, it says "our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."

• Do you believe there are demonic beings vying for power over us?
• Where are there dark spiritual powers trying to work in your life? (share what you feel comfortable sharing here or share individually at another time)
• Who wins this battle?

We should not have fear of this battle because "greater is He who is within you than he who is in the world..." (1 John 4:4)

Rod said miracles along with showing God's power are given to us to give us a glimpse of heaven on earth. What glimpses of heaven have you seen on earth?

Has the kingdom broken into your life?

How did Jesus unleash his authority? Read verse 35... Why did Jesus pray?
If Jesus has to pray, how much more do we?

Rod said prayer is THE ministry of the church. He said prayer is how the kingdom of heaven is unleashed in the world. Do you believe this and if so, how have you seen this to be true in the world?