Daily Bread - Dec 20 2006

Acts 3:16 - "And the faith upon His name has made this one whom you see and know strong; and the faith that is through Him gave to him this perfect health before you all."

The Greek preposition 'epi' is translated most often 'on' or 'upon,' and, although it is awkward, it is accurate. The next phrase uses yet another preposition 'dia,' which is most commonly translated 'through,' 'on account of' or 'because of.' The healing power of God is manifested by "the faith upon His name" and "the faith that is through the name of Jesus." Jesus made it known that all power was given unto Him in heaven and in earth, therefore, He commanded that when we preach or minister we are to do it in His name.

The name of Jesus communicates faith, and by the name of Jesus, the miracle power of faith is released. Jesus said, "These signs shall follow them that believe, in my name," devils will be cast out, the believer will "speak with new tongues," they will "lay hands on the sick and they will recover" (Mark 16:17; Luke 24:47). Jesus is still at work today because He is the unchanging Savior who is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He is the unchanging Savior whose government is forever increasing.

When Paul cast out devils or ministered healing, he used the name of Jesus just as Peter and John used the name of Jesus. The sons of Sceva failed when they used the name of Jesus because they had no authority to use His name. They could not speak of Jesus as their Lord but only Jesus whom Paul preached. As a result, the evil spirit did not have to listen to them but rather attacked and hurt them (Acts 19:13). "But as many as would receive Him, who having faith in His name, to them He gave authority to be the sons of God" (John 1:12).

Be blessed,

Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
www.abidingplace.org