Good Offense

This past weekend was Super Wild Card Weekend when football fans experienced emotional highs and lows while the rest sat back and laughed at the sporting frenzy. Even if you are an occasional fan of the sport, the games, at the very least, were entertaining and made for a fun way to spend a weekend. Also, it would be safe to assume the teams who won had this going for them – they either had a good offense, defense, or perhaps both. 
 
On Sunday, the K-5 ministry will hear about the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness. Now, for those familiar with the story, what would you say our Lord was presenting – good offense, defense, or perhaps both? There is probably enough argument for both, but I would challenge you to remember why Jesus went into the wilderness. The Holy Spirit led Him (Luke 4:1-2). Jesus came with power by the Spirit and was ready to take on the challenges of the enemy (Vv. 3-13). Our Lord had a good offense because He spoke the Word of God and the guidance of the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 6:17b). Jesus, later in his ministry, would tell Peter, his disciple, that His church is on the move, “and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18, ESV). Jesus is proclaiming an offensive move against the enemy. His church has won (Romans 8:37; 1 Corinthians 15:57). Remember – “the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword” (Hebrews 4:12).

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