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Chapter 11: Supernatural Intent

Supernatural

November 22, 2020 • Chris Reighley

Supernatural:
What the Bible Teaches about the Unseen World—And Why It Matters

by Dr. Michael S. Heiser

Uncover the Supernatural in the Bible

Introduction: The Cosmic Strategy of Jesus’ Ministry

What if every moment of Jesus’ earthly life was a direct assault on the spiritual forces of darkness? What if the Messiah’s baptism, temptation, and teaching were not just theological milestones, but military maneuvers in a supernatural war?

In this chapter, Dr. Michael Heiser uncovers the strategic intent behind the public ministry of Jesus, showing how key events like His baptism, wilderness temptation, and travels near Mount Hermon are not incidental—they are battleground moments, chosen with divine precision.

Jesus’ mission wasn’t only to forgive sin—it was to undo the works of the devil, reclaim hostile territory, and confront the unseen powers. From the moment of His baptism (where the Spirit descends and the Father speaks), to His showdown with Satan in the wilderness, to His miracles in regions like Bashan—Jesus is systematically taking back dominion.

This chapter helps us see that Jesus didn’t randomly roam the countryside. He moved with supernatural intent, targeting strongholds of darkness and signaling to the seen and unseen realms that the kingdom of God had come.

Chapter Outline: Supernatural Intent

I. A Mystery Hidden from the Powers

  • 1 Corinthians 2:6–9 – If the rulers of this age had known, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.
  • God’s strategy was wise, hidden, and intentionally misunderstood by supernatural enemies.

II. The Baptism and Temptation of Jesus

A. The Baptism
  • Matthew 3 – Father, Son, and Spirit are present.
  • Marks the launch of Jesus’ kingdom mission.
B. The Temptation
  • Matthew 4:1–11 – Satan offers the kingdoms of the world.
  • Jesus refuses to seize power on Satan’s terms.
  • A direct confrontation between the seed of the woman and the serpent (cf. Gen. 3:15).

III. The Voice in the Wilderness: John the Baptist

  • Isaiah 40:1–5 – John prepares the way for Yahweh Himself.
  • Jesus’ forerunner is part of the prophetic setup.
  • John’s ministry introduces the divine reclaiming of Israel and the nations.

IV. Jesus Begins the Campaign

  • Matthew 4:23–25 – Healing, casting out demons, proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom.
  • His miracles are not mere compassion—they are spiritual warfare.

V. Mount Hermon: Ground Zero of Rebellion

A. Geography as Theology
  • Mount Hermon was the traditional site of the Watchers’ rebellion (1 Enoch 6:1–6).
  • In Jewish tradition, this was where the sons of God descended and corrupted humanity (Genesis 6).
B. Jesus Goes to Bashan
  • Jesus ministers near the Golan Heights, ancient Bashan—territory long associated with spiritual darkness.
  • Jesus targets the gates of hell—Caesarea Philippi, at the foot of Mount Hermon.

VI. What Happened at Mount Hermon?

  • The Transfiguration (not covered in detail in this chapter but strongly alluded): Jesus reveals His glory on the very mountain linked with ancient rebellion.
  • This event signals to hostile powers: the true Son of God has come to reclaim what was lost.

VII. Why This Matters

  1. Jesus’ Ministry Was Strategic
    • Every movement had supernatural significance.
    • He intentionally confronted demonic powers on their own turf.
  2. He Came to Undo the Curse
    • His ministry began where human and divine rebellion originated.
  3. He Rescued Us from the Domain of Darkness
    • Colossians 1:13–14 – We have been transferred into the kingdom of the Son.
  4. The Gospel Is War
    • Jesus’ victory wasn’t just moral or legal—it was military in the unseen realm.

Key Scriptures

  • 1 Cor. 2:6–9 – The rulers missed the plan
  • Matthew 4:1–11, 23–25 – Temptation and healing ministry
  • Isaiah 40:1–5 – Voice in the wilderness
  • 1 Enoch 6:1–6 (traditional background)
  • Colossians 1:13–14 – Rescued from the domain of darkness

Reflection & Discussion Questions

  • How does geography deepen our understanding of Jesus’ mission?
  • What does it mean for you to live with “supernatural intent”?
  • How do Jesus’ actions in places like Bashan inform your view of spiritual warfare today?

Key Takeaway

Jesus didn’t just come to preach and heal—He came to invade.

Every step of His ministry was laced with supernatural strategy—reversing rebellion, reclaiming ground, and defeating darkness.

His footsteps mark a path we are now called to follow—with intent.

This study was taught by Chris Reighley to the Sunday Night Bible Study at Rolling Hills Community Church in Lago Vista, Texas in 2020

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