Why The Darkness Trembles At The Name Of Jesus

As I write this post, earlier today at Agape (our church at USAG-Humphreys in South Korea), Chaplain Alex Ishchuk preached Matthew’s version of The Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20). You can watch his message here (it starts 30 minutes in, and it’s excellent and challenging). In his message, Alex pointed out that Jesus prefaced the Great Commission with the words, “All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth.” Because all authority has been given to Him, as Kingdom people, we are obligated to obey His command to be disciples who make disciples. But there are other major implications stemming from the reality that Jesus has all authority in heaven and earth.

I have enjoyed the song, “Tremble,” by Mosaic MSC Music. There are several good versions, but my favorite is I AM THEY’s (below and available as mp3 on Amazon for $1.29). As I’ve listened to the song, I think about how the name of Jesus terrifies the darkness. Why is this the case? I have seen the power of the Gospel overcome the darkness in peoples’ lives (including my own). The answer is that Jesus makes Satan, demons, and the forces of evil tremble, because He has all authority. And they know it, and they have to live with that reality.

Bethany and I enjoyed watching the series, The Chosen, which has over 56 million views. It’s the number 1 crowdfunded series of all time. It’s available to watch for free on YouTube. One of the more powerful aspects of episode one is when Jesus casts out the demons from Mary Magdalene. When Jesus confronts the demons, they shrink back in fear of Him, because He has all authority. Right from the beginning of the series, Jesus reveals his supernatural identity and unsurpassing authority.

This authority has significant consequences for sin and death. They are on notice, and Isaiah and Revelation announce these enemies will be destroyed.

He will destroy death forever.
The Lord God will wipe away the tears
from every face
and remove His people’s disgrace
from the whole earth,
for the Lord has spoken. Isaiah 25:8

He will wipe away every tear from their eyes.
Death will no longer exist;
grief, crying, and pain will exist no longer,
because the previous things have passed away. Revelation 21:4

The forces of evil tremble, because they know the day is coming King Jesus will destroy them forever.