Do you know what it means to have authority in Christ?
Authority is a powerful concept. It means having the right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience.
It represents power and control, often seen in political or administrative spheres.
But when we talk about authority from a Christian perspective, especially the authority we have in Jesus Christ, it takes on a much deeper and more profound meaning.
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The Source of True Authority
Jesus said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (Matthew 28:18).
This statement is foundational for understanding Christian authority.
Unlike worldly authority, which is often about power, control, and being in charge, the authority of Jesus Christ is rooted in servanthood, humility, and love.
When we think of authority in the world, we imagine leaders who enforce rules and make decisions.
However, in the Kingdom of God, authority is about permission to act on behalf of Christ. It’s about being empowered by Him to carry out His work on earth.
The Authority Given to Believers
In Luke 10:19-20, Jesus tells His disciples, “I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you. However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”
Here, Jesus makes it clear that the authority He gives us is not for our own glory but for His. It’s a reminder that our authority is a result of our relationship with Him.
We belong to the Lord, bought with a price, and our authority is meant to serve His purposes.
Without being in Christ, we cannot exercise this authority. It is His power within us that enables us to overcome the enemy and lead His people.
The Contrast with Worldly Authority
Worldly authority often focuses on being in charge, exercising control, and asserting power.
But in God’s Kingdom, authority is different. It’s about having the permission and power to act on behalf of Christ. It’s about humility, service, and love.
In 1 Peter 4:11, we are reminded that everything we do should be for God’s glory: “If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.”
Operating in Humility
To operate in the authority given to us by Christ, we must first operate in humility.
Jesus Himself demonstrated this when He came to earth. He did not seek to please Himself but the One who sent Him.
In Philippians 2:5-8, we read, “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!”
Spiritual Warfare and Authority
Our struggle as Christians is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces.
Ephesians 6:12 explains, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”
This highlights the importance of recognizing the spiritual battle we are in and the authority we have in Christ to stand against these forces.
Encouragement and Rebuke with Authority
With the authority given to us, we are called to encourage and, when necessary, rebuke with all authority.
This must always be done in love and humility, remembering that our goal is to build up the body of Christ and bring glory to God.
5 Ways to Walk in Your Authority in Christ
- 1. Stay Close to Jesus – Our authority comes from our relationship with Him. Spend time in prayer, study the Bible, and seek to know Him more each day.
- 2. Walk in Humility – Recognize that the authority you have is not for your own benefit but for God’s glory. Be humble in your actions and words.
- 3. Use Your Authority Wisely – Encourage others, stand firm against the enemy, and be bold in your faith. Remember, your authority is to further God’s Kingdom, not your own agenda.
- 4. Engage in Spiritual Warfare – Be aware of the spiritual battle around you. Use the authority you have in Christ to pray against the powers of darkness and to bring light into the world.
- 5. Be a Servant Leader – Follow Jesus’ example of servant leadership. Use your authority to serve others, showing them the love and grace of Christ.
Conclusion
Understanding the authority we have in Jesus Christ is crucial for living out our faith effectively.
It’s not about asserting power or control but about being empowered by Christ to carry out His mission on earth.
By walking in humility, staying close to Jesus, and using our authority wisely, we can make a significant impact for God’s Kingdom.
Remember, our ultimate goal is to bring glory to God and lead others to Him.
As we exercise the authority given to us, let us do so with love, humility, and a heart to serve.
Rejoice not in the power itself, but in the fact that we are His, and our names are written in heaven.
