Are you rejoicing for the wrong reasons?
Written in Heaven
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Nevertheless, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names stand written in heaven.
Luke 10:20 (NET)
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Quite the perspective shift on this one.
Jesus had sent the disciples out to do some mission work.
They saw amazing things, with even the demons being cast out of people.
For all that amazing display of power, it’s not the most important thing.
I wonder how the disciples took the teaching Jesus gave here.
If it was me, I would think that I would be too excited about the amazing work I just did -- even though the Spirit was doing the work. I’d probably feel a bit deflated to hear this.
It’s a small reprimand.
A reminder to keep our eyes on the mission that matters.
Sure, healing the sick and casting out demons matters a lot. It’s good work done for God’s glory.
But it’s not the most important mission.
The mission is getting the message out to lost souls. Sharing the good news of the hope of salvation with them so they have the chance at eternal life.
We don’t even have to do the saving -- God does that.
All we have to do is be faithful to His calling.
Usually meaning that we’re always prepared to give an answer for the hope we have in Christ.
Again, quite the perspective shift.
— Ricky Ketchum
Copyright © 2026 by Ricky Ketchum. All rights reserved. Unauthorized duplication prohibited.
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