Luke 13:10-17
Introduction
Often, in the event of an unfortunate passing, there’s an executor of the estate or legal representation entrusted to read a predetermined will. With heirs of the deceased member’s family gathered, the executor will share the details for the distribution of personal belongings and ensure rightful inheritance to covenantal or legitimate beneficiaries. Much like the realities of this scenario, believers have authority, through Jesus, to claim promises and access their victory over illegitimate attacks from the enemy.
In Luke 13, Jesus encounters a woman at a synagogue plagued by demonic forces that have captivated her physical body for eighteen years, causing illness and limited mobility. While every physical ailment is not rooted in demonic influence, some are. Despite the woman’s involvement and attendance in regular religious activities, the enemy physically controlled her. In verses 12 and 13, Jesus sees her and “He called her over and said to her, ‘Woman, you are freed from your sickness.’ And He laid His hands on her, and immediately she stood up straight again, and began glorifying God.”
The direct presence of Jesus, His powerful words and His intimate touch freed the woman, and she overcame her spiritual attack. Engaging in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ is the means to taking ownership of your spiritual rights. Intentional proximity to Jesus brings power. Essentially, the closer you get to Jesus, the more power you receive to overcome emotional, physical and any other pain caused by illegitimate spiritual attacks.
Claiming spiritual rights also requires specific criteria. As a daughter of Abraham, the woman in Luke 13 possessed a covenantal position that gave her access to covenantal promises. As a believer, you also are a son or daughter of Abraham. You are connected to promises. Spiritual covenantal relationship through Jesus Christ is key. When you understand and claim your rightful victory over illegitimate spiritual battles, it emphasizes the reality that Satan has no authority over your life.
Getting Started
- Spend a few minutes getting to know your group members! As a group, define the term “legitimate.”
- In today’s world, what are some of the most common ways believers experience illegitimate attacks from the enemy?
- In what ways can believers position themselves to access their legitimate right for victory over spiritual attacks?
Let’s Get Personal
- Do you struggle with understanding or accessing your legitimate spiritual rights? Describe a time in which you felt unequipped to attain victory in a spiritual attack.
- In what area(s) are you attacking without spiritual power? Where do you need to claim your covenantal rights?
- Consider your relationship and proximity to Jesus. Do you recognize His presence? Do you spend time reading and obeying His Words? What steps do you need to take to draw closer to Him?
Take the Next Step
- How will your prayers change in light of this message? How should you be praying to claim your spiritual rights?
- What new truths did you learn from this message?
- Want to dig deeper? Take a look at the following passages: Galatians 3:6-14, 28-29
Renew Your Mind
“‘And this woman, a daughter of Abraham as she is, whom Satan has bound for eighteen long years, should she not have been released from this restraint on the Sabbath day?’ And as He said this, all His opponents were being humiliated; and the entire crowd was rejoicing over all the glorious things being done by Him.”
Luke 13:16-17
