One of the main goals of this devotional series is to paint a broad-stroke picture of the story of redemption, highlighting important pieces to bring into focus the reality of what is going on around us.

Jude told us a strange story; one where spirit beings crossed the boundaries from the unseen to the seen realm and took for themselves wives of human women. I know, it sounds weird, right! But that's what it says happened. Now, Peter revisits this event as he speaks of those guilty of this terrible trespass being visited by the resurrected Christ. As they await their judgement, held in changes, He made proclamation to them. He was the victor, He had won the cosmic battle once and for all.

Some would have us believe this is mere mythology laid atop Christianity, but I submit to you this story explains reality. A truly biblical worldview isn't bound by what we can see, measure, or control. History unfolds across seen and unseen realms alike ... but still under the ever-watchful eye of God's authority. The rebellion of old by who Daniel calls "the Watchers" hasn't been forgotten, oh no, Jesus has come to declare the Victory over all things, including the powers and authorities of this present world.

Jesus wasn't there to negotiate a release or mount a rescue. His resurrection was a declaration that all authority in heaven and earth belongs to Him. These rebellious powers weren't given a second chance, they were given a final verdict and certainly reminded of their final fate.

This is why we say that Jesus death and resurrection wasn't ONLY to save sinners. He was reclaiming the authority from the corrupted beings to which He had given it earlier on. The victory of the resurrection sent shockwaves backward into ancient rebellions and forward into the hope of the new creation.

To have a proper view of the world, a biblical one, is to understand that evil is real. It is restrained and ultimately already defeated, but real nonetheless. These powers who once corrupted humanity with their perversion now stand disarmed, exposed, and left to wait their final judgment.

In a world that sensationalizes "spiritual warfare" coupled with biblical illiteracy, it's easy to forget the true nature of the unseen realm and what happened to get us to this place we find ourselves in. As you reflect, ask yourself: 

How does knowing that Jesus confronts spiritual rebellion, not just human sin, expand your confidence in His victory?

Father, I am grateful you are powerful and in authority over all things, seen and unseen. Help me live today with great confidence and peace instead of fear. Help me to trust your finished work and glory in Your resurrection. Amen