The crowds around Jesus were not aware of Jesus conversing with God, but thought it was the sound of thunder. They were unable to distinguish or note that God is love, nor did they hear his tender voice, nor did they realize that by the revelation of God’s glory in the Son the world’s judgment had begun.
Satan lost his hold on his slaves, since Christ was lifted on the cross and gave us life by his death. The Evil One was deprived of his powers by the submission of the Son to the Father’s will. Jesus called the devil the Prince of this world, in view of the fact that the whole world was placed in his domain. In the face of this painful and bitter reality Jesus did not hesitate, but struck Satan with the sword of his righteousness, dealing a fatal blow. We are now free children in Jesus’ name.
We are drawn to his cross. Satan detested him to the extent that he would not let Jesus die on the ground or in his bed, but lifted him to die on the cross of shame. But just as the serpent lifted up in the wilderness in Moses’ day witnessed the end of God’s punishment for believers, so also the cross gathers all judgment on Christ’s shoulders. God does not condemn those who look on the Crucified. Our faith in Christ crucifies us with him and unites us in his death. We have died to sin and live for righteousness.
Our union with Christ joins us to his power and glory. Just as he overcame sin and death in holiness, so he will draw us behind him and attract us to his glory. All who trust in him will never perish, but will have everlasting life.