Dear COA Family,
Jesus says, “I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep” (John 10:14-15).
The word “know” is very significant.
When Jesus says he knows us, he is not merely saying that he has a mental knowledge of us but has an intimate relationship with us. After all, Jesus is the creator of the world and cognitively knows of everyone in the world. He knows what all our thoughts, habits and personalities are. But whether he has a personal relationship with everyone, that is another matter.
It works like this: I may know of Mr Lee Hsien Loong as the Prime Minister of Singapore. I may even know his age, his family and his background. But I do not know him personally. If we met on the street, he would not acknowledge me. My knowing of him is restricted to knowledge of certain facts about him.
And God’s intimate knowledge of us is very significant in the spiritual realm.
Jesus continues saying, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand” (John 10:27-28).
Those whom Jesus knows enjoy a strong assurance of their eternal security in him. No one can affect or hinder their salvation. This blessing comes about when we have an intimate relationship with our Lord and walk in obedience to everything he says.
Not only that, there is power over the devil and his demons when Jesus knows us.
The evil spirit whom the seven sons of Sceva tried to drive out in Jesus’ name replied to them, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know, but who are you?” (Acts 19:15).
It then proceeded to attack and overpower them, leaving them fleeing in nakedness.
In other words, the demonic spirits recognise only the intimate relationship we have with our Lord Jesus and submit to our authority over them.
On numerous occasions, I had to pray against the influence of demonic spirits in the lives of people. Was I afraid when I confronted them? No, I did not dread them. I know of my position of authority in Christ. This is due to Christ knowing me as his son and servant. And he who is in me is greater than he who is in the world.
You too can have the assurance of eternal life and victory over fear and anxiety in your life as you are known by Jesus and the Father! This happens when you fully entrust your life to him and obey him in all that he commands you to do.
Have a blessed week ahead!
Revd Ian