October 24, 2024
The Power of Declaration Matthew 17:14-20 and Mark 11:23
Listen to last week’s sermon The Power of Declaration found in Matthew 17:14-20 and Mark 11:23
Understanding the Power of Words
Biblical Context
The Bible is full with passages emphasizing the importance of words. Jesus himself spoke extensively about the impact of our declarations. Key scriptures like Matthew 17:14-20 and Mark 11:23 highlight the power of spoken words to overcome challenges.
- Matthew 17:14-20: This passage recounts the disciples’ inability to heal a demon-possessed boy, which Jesus attributes to their lack of faith. Jesus emphasizes that faith, even as small as a mustard seed, can move mountains.
- Mark 11:23: Jesus illustrates the power of faith-filled words by cursing a fig tree, teaching that believers can command mountains to move if they believe without doubt.
The Dual Nature of Words
Words can build up or tear down. They hold the potential to bless, give life, bind, loosen, and rebuke. Proverbs 18:21 encapsulates this duality:
Death and life are in the power of the tongue.
Pastor Eric warns against idle words, urging believers to use their words wisely and intentionally.
Steps to Overcome Mountains
1. Identify Your Mountain
Not every challenge is a mountain to be moved; some are valleys to walk through. Discernment is crucial. Ask for wisdom to distinguish between obstacles that require divine intervention and those that serve as opportunities for growth.
2. Ensure Your Faith is Genuine
Faith is central to moving mountains. Jesus criticized the disciples for their “little faith,” emphasizing that even small, genuine faith can lead to significant outcomes. Like a mustard seed, faith should have the potential to grow and flourish.
Growing Your Faith
- Listen and Act: Faith comes by hearing the Word of God. Step out of your comfort zone and embrace challenges that stretch your faith.
- Pray for Increase: Ask God to increase your faith, believing that He will answer your prayer.
3. Speak to Your Mountain
Jesus instructs believers to speak to their mountains, putting faith into action. This involves:
- Declaration: Proclaim God’s Word over your situation.
- Boldness: Speak with confidence, knowing that God backs your words.
Personal Practice
Pastor Eric shares personal experiences of how prayer and faith have strengthened his declarations. He encourages believers to:
- Pray and Build Faith: Before speaking to your mountains, ensure your faith is strong.
- Speak Boldly: Once your faith is established, boldly declare God’s promises over your challenges.
Embrace the power of declaration by speaking to your mountains with faith and according to God’s Word. Remember, the size of your God, not the size of your mountain, determines the outcome. By aligning your words with your faith, you invite divine intervention into your life.