Mark 1:21-28
Suggested further reading: Matthew 19:16-22
Ironically, here we read that the demons say that they know who our Lord is, even while the religious scribes and Pharisees do not. But their knowledge did not save them. Why? Because they had merely an intellectual faith in a fact and not a saving faith that trusted who Jesus was and what He did on the Cross and obeyed Him.
The mere belief of the facts and doctrines of the Bible, such as the demons have, will never save anyone. These demons believe and know that Jesus is the Christ, that He will one day judge the world and cast them down into endless torment. It is a solemn and sorrowful thought that some professing Christians have even less faith than the devil and doubt the reality of hell and everlasting punishment. Again, it is ironic that doubts about hell can be found in the hearts of some today but not among the demons! (James 2:19)
It is a very sad to think that such an unsanctified knowledge can be found in some professing Christians. Yes, it is possible to know the contents of the Bible, and profess their truthfulness, to have memorized verses, and talk about Biblical doctrines, and yet find that all of this Biblical truth has no influence over our hearts, our wills, and our consciences. Such a faith is not better than demon’s faith.
Let us make sure that we first trust and then obey. Our Lord cast into hell those that called out to him saying, “Lord” but did not obey. Let us make sure that our faith bears fruit in our lives.
Demons in hell can say, “Christ is a Savior” but only true believers can say, “Christ is my Savior and my Lord.” May our faith become faithfulness to the glory of God, the saving of our souls, and the blessing of others. Let us trust and obey!
Lanny Tanton is the Pastor at The Bible Church of the Lakes in Horseshoe Bay, Texas – just outside of Marble Falls. Pastor Tanton welcomes you to our website and hopes that you’ll enjoy reading these insightful blog posts. Please contact us if you have further questions!!
