An Order is an Order!

In the Bible, “name” means identity and includes reputation. “My name is in him” said God, speaking of the angel of the LORD that would go before the Israelites (Exodus 23:21). Moffat translates: “I am manifest in him.” Meaning, “He speaks for Me.” The Angel of the LORD had no discretionary power to alter or modify an order!

Likewise, Moses was “as God” to Aaron (Exodus 4:16). In Psalm 82:6 and John 10:34-36 judges in Israel are referred to as “gods” since they decided on cases brought before them strictly according to the Law of Moses.

Jesus quoted the latter verse when debating with Jewish leaders, and when evicting demons from people, we do so as though Jesus was present and doing so in person — because in us by the Spirit of God and through us by the authority of his words he is! So, evicting demons from those who are oppressed is not about how loud you shout at demons, or how many Bible texts you blast them with, but rather the absolute certainty you have that you are speaking with the full authority of the One who first issued it.

In the army, “An order is an order” — a soldier does not question it or double think it but acts on it — the authority being in the order itself, which has “come down” from “higher authority” through a “chain of command”. Unlike some army orders that “come down” however, God’s word is perfect. It is also reliable because no human unbeliever or demonic entity can prevent it — much less overrule it!

All things are possible and many things are probable, but few things are certain. An order from the Lord Jesus in your mouth is absolute! Make sure though that your certainty is from Jesus — not just a repeat of an experience you once had, because the Lord may do things differently, which remains at all times his prerogative.

“Don’t think about it — just DO it!” So barks an army sergeant to a newly-enlisted soldier who is dopey enough to mistake an order for a suggestion. If it does not work for him, why do you think questioning an order from your Lord will work for you?

Peter E. Barfoot