Pastor’s Table Blog

A sermon summary of Luke 11:14-54

By: Pastor David Hentschel

In the words of Abraham Lincoln, "A house divided against itself cannot stand." These timeless words resonate not only in the realm of politics but also in the spiritual journey depicted in Luke 11:14-54. This passage contains three compelling sections: the battle with the demon, the battle with darkness, and the battle at the dinner. Within these narratives, the debate about spiritual warfare and the controversial topic of whether Christians can be possessed by a demon took center stage.

Section 1: The Battle with the Demon (Lk 11:14-28)

The passage opens with a vivid account of Jesus casting out a demon, sparking a heated debate among the onlookers. Dr. Michael Heiser, writes in his book, The Unseen Realm: Recovering the supernatural worldview of the Bible, “We’ve been desensitized to the vitality and theological importance of the unseen world.” (p 16)

Some were in awe of His authority, while others sought to discredit Him. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of spiritual warfare and the implications for believers. The question arises: Can Christians be possessed by a demon? The sermon delves into various perspectives on this controversial issue, emphasizing the importance of discernment and a strong spiritual foundation.

Jim Osman writes in his book Truth or Territory, that there are six reasons why a Christian can’t be possessed by a demon.

1) We have been delivered (Col 1:13)

2) We are temples of the living God (1 Cor 6:19)

3) The one in us is greater than the one who is in the world (1 Jn 4:4)

4) We are sealed by the Spirit (Eph 1:13)

5) There is an absence of instruction in the NT on how to deal with a demon possessed believer.

6) We are told we can and should resist the devil as a follower of Christ, and he will flee. (James 4:7)

Allow me to add a 7th reason: the word “possession” implies “ownership,” but a Christian has been bought by the blood of Christ. Because you have been purchased Christ is your rightful owner and Lord. Therefore, true Christians need not be afraid.  “The Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.” (2 Thess 3:3)

However, spiritual warfare is in fact real and we can be influenced by the enemy, so we are still called to “fight,” and to “wrestle,” and to resist the devil and to wage this spiritual war.

Dr. Michael Heiser teaches that a Christian cannot be possessed by a demon, but he also points out that the term “possession” may not always be the right English word to translate the term. “Demonazomai.”

Another legitimate definition of “Demonization” given to me by my seminary professor, was this: “Demonization could also mean the ongoing affliction or torment of an individual through the presence of a demon.” (Dr. Robert Pyne)

This, many believe, actually can happen to a believer. Not demon possession but demon oppression.

So Yes, Satan is a defeated foe, but he has not yet been defeated – in a final sense.  So we are still engaged in the battle.

But, how do we fight? We are to put on the full armor of God (Eph 6) and stand firm against the lies of the enemy. The devil is a liar.

Dr. Michael Heiser says, “The way that spiritual warfare is accomplished is by telling the truth. You speak truth to lies.”

Section 2: The Battle with Darkness (Lk 11:29-32)

Moving forward, the sermon unfolds the narrative of Jesus addressing the darkness that lurks within. He warns against the dangers of spiritual emptiness and the consequences of allowing darkness to take root. This section challenges believers to examine their hearts, emphasizing the need for spiritual vigilance and a continuous pursuit of the light.

Section 3: The Battle at the Dinner (Lk 11:33-54)

As the sermon progresses, we find Jesus engaged in a heated dinner conversation with Pharisees and experts in the law. This setting becomes a battleground for ideological clashes, highlighting the dangers of self-righteousness and hypocrisy. The message encourages believers to cultivate humility, authenticity, and a genuine love for others.

In the concluding moments of Luke 11, Jesus pronounces six woes upon the Pharisees, reminiscent of Isaiah's six woes, culminating with the 7^th woe which Isaiah pronounces upon himself. However, a curious absence lingers—a "missing woe" as the Pharisees sought to trap Jesus. This deliberate omission speaks volumes, illustrating Jesus' divine wisdom and their refusal to submit to Him.

The parallels with Isaiah's woes add depth to the narrative, ultimately leading to a profound observation. Isaiah's seventh woe was pronounced upon himself, saying, "Woe is me." Similarly, in Luke 11, the missing woe serves as a mirror for introspection.

What is the greatest danger of the 21^st century church? Based on Jesus’ stern rebuke, NT Commentator Philip Ryken states, “The greatest danger may come from theologically informed, religiously active, morally conservative people whose hearts are far from God.” (Ryken, Luke, p 618)

As we navigate the battles with demons, darkness, and dinner with people who have religious ideologies, we are reminded of our own vulnerabilities. In acknowledging our shortcomings, we find the path to redemption and the transformative power of Christ's love.

“The missing woe” echoes the importance of humility and self-reflection, paving the way for a deeper connection with the divine. As we grapple with the battles within and around us, may we find solace in the unifying power of Christ's message, transcending divisions and fostering a house built on the solid foundation of Christ’s love and grace in the gospel.