Abiding under the Lord’s Authority
And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Matthew 28:18
I begin this week’s blog with several questions.
Do you remember in your life where you personally understood and acknowledged authority? Have you ever given any consideration to where authority comes from? Are you steadfast in, as well as standing under, the Lord’s Authority? As a young child growing up, authority got my undivided attention in the form of my grandmother aka Big Momma. I believe that she was an original member of the R.O.D. authority. (Reminder Of Discipline)
Proverbs 13:24 He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.
Proverbs 22:15 Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.
(In addition to that she frequently voiced what I refer to as the anthem of accountability: A HARD HEAD MAKES A SOFT BEHIND). Now that’s a Love language I was blessed to live with.
Before we begin tallying the things that drop under the authority of the believer, we have to acknowledge that the believers (Born again individuals) are under authority, and our Father God is the authority.
Romans 13:1-2 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.
James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Our initial text tells us that Jesus spoke to his disciples proclaiming that He possesses all authority (power) in Heaven and on earth. This authority (exousia) echoes the eternal truth that Jesus officially enjoys power given to Him by the Father and now He was directing the disciples to take off to ministry because of that authority.
Followers of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ should call everyone to God’s authority. A true devoted disciple of the Lord completely depends on the Lord for his or her life.
Luke 22:42 Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.
It must be noted that God has appointed reduced authorities in this world. Parents have authority over their children (Ephesians 6:1). Husbands have authority over their wives (Ephesians 5:22–24). Kings have authority over their subjects (Romans 13:1–7). The apostles had authority over the church (Acts 4:34–35;) Employers have authority over their employees, Teachers have authority over their students, Coaches have authority over their athletes.
Once again, all authority comes from God, good or indifferent.
In my next blog entry, we will explore the concepts of being under and standing in God’s authority as well as unlawful authority. Until next time seek to submit to God and resist the Devil and watch him take flight.
Not a sermon, just some thoughts
For the Glory of God,
PBKSR