Rev. Cyril A. Stevens – Sermon 0082B recorded on August 26, 1979 teaching from Luke 13:11-22 – Loosed from Our Infirmities.
Pastor Cyril A. Stevens explores the healing of the infirm woman from the Gospel of Luke to illustrate how Christ provides liberation from spiritual distortion. He characterizes the woman’s physical stoop as a “terrifying distortion” caused by the binding power of Satan, arguing that sin similarly warps a person’s ability to perceive God’s creation clearly. The narrative structure shifts from the compassionate touch of the Shepherd, who calls the woman by name to restore her, to the indignation of the legalistic religious leader who prioritizes Sabbath rituals over human restoration. Stevens concludes by using the parables of the mustard seed and leaven to show that while the initial act of faith may be small, the resulting inward transformation eventually permeates every aspect of a believer’s life. Ultimately, Pastor Stevens gives a passionate invitation for the listener to accept immediate spiritual loosing and experience a “brand new” existence through the grace of Jesus Christ.