Faith Over Fear // Jesus Heals

August 16, 2026

We live in a spiritual battle. There is an epic struggle between good vs. evil. We have an enemy that wars against us. Yet, as Christians, we have the Spirit of God in us, so our enemy cannot possess us, but he can tempt us. He can try to distract us from living for the things of God. But our God is greater! Jesus defeated our enemy on the cross and through His Resurrection, so our victory is secure. How will you respond to Jesus? Will you recognize Jesus as your Lord and Savior, and live with confidence in HIm? Jesus has all authority! Choose faith over fear.

Jesus has authority over evil.

The demons begged Jesus, “If you drive us out, send us into the herd of pigs.” Matthew 8:31

There is a spiritual battle.
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:12
The Word (Jesus) vs. the world (satan)
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life and have it to the full. John 10:10
If you are a Christian, then the devil cannot possess you.
You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that – and shudder! James 2:19
But the devil can tempt you.
Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7b

Jesus has authority over sin.

But I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins. Matthew 9:6a

Jesus saw their faith.
Spiritual healing is greater than physical healing.
Jesus is the only One who can forgive sins.

Jesus calls us to respond in faith.

Then the man got up and went home. Matthew 9:7

Both stories end with responses:

The townspeople respond with fear.
The four friends and the paralytic respond with faith.
As Christians, we don’t have to live by fear, but we can live by faith.
For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7
How do you respond to Jesus today?