A constant collision of two kingdoms: this is Luke 4, as the kingdom of God effectively opposes the kingdom of the darkness. Early on in this story the devil has the audacity to offer Jesus all the kingdoms of the world, over which he had authority, if only Jesus would worship him. Of course, Jesus doesn't, stating that God alone is to be worshiped, and the devil is unsuccessful.
Later, Jesus describes His mission: to proclaim good news to the poor, liberty to the captives, and sight to the blind; to free the oppressed and to proclaim the time of God's favor (4:18,19). After breaking demonic strongholds and healing the sick, we see Him teaching in various synagogues and towns because he "must preach the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns as well" (Luke 4:43). This was part of His purpose.
Luke seems to tie Jesus' quote and application of Isaiah's prophecy to His declaration of the kingdom of God. Is this good news? Absolutely! He is anointed not only to preach the kingdom but to bring it! He casts out demons, rebukes a high fever, heals a great many sick people with various diseases and He teaches the truth with authority. These things are evidence of the kingdom of God among men.
Could it be that we could still see strong teaching of the good news accompanied with the powerful evidence that Jesus says is fulfilled in and through Him? Can we see anointed men and women of God declaring the good news of the kingdom of God to the poor, declaring liberty to those in captivity, recovering of sight to lost and blinded people? Can we really see the oppressed set free? I firmly believe we can... and will. I'm really excited to be proclaiming (and walking in) the favor of God this year!
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