Heaven's Decree: Walking in Authority from Above
A profound truth: the authority that comes from heaven. It is not a power grasped by human ambition, but a gift bestowed by God Himself, a power that transforms lives and shapes destinies. Let us explore the depths of this divine authority.
The Need for Authority
- People recognize the need for authority in many areas of their life (home, school, business, society, etc.)
- What about the need for authority in religion?
- “Authority” (Gr. exousia) = the right or power to do something lawfully
1. God is the Source of All Authority (Romans 13:1)
The Need for Authority
- Authority is understood by some (Mt. 8:9)
- Authority presupposes a lawgiver (Jas. 4:12)
- Authority ultimately comes from God the Creator (Gen. 1:1,28; Ac. 17:24; Rom. 13:1)
"Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God." This foundational truth reminds us that all authority, whether in government, family, or the church, ultimately originates from God. He is the sovereign ruler of the universe, and all power flows from Him. Recognizing this helps us to understand our place in His divine order.
2. The Authority of Jesus Christ over All Things (Matthew 28:18)
"And Jesus came and said to them, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.'" After His resurrection, Jesus declared His absolute authority. He is Lord of all, possessing dominion over every aspect of creation. This authority is not merely a title, but a living reality, demonstrated through His miracles, His teachings, and His ultimate victory over death.
Authority from Heaven
God’s final authority for all mankind is contained in the NT scriptures
- The spoken word (1 Thess. 2:13)
- The written word (1 Cor. 14:37; 2 Thess. 2:15; 3:14)
- The final word (Gal. 1:6-9; 2 Tim. 3:16-17; 2 Jn. 9-11; Jude 3; Rev. 22:18-19)
3. Spiritual Authority over Evil (Luke 10:19)
"Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you." Jesus delegated spiritual authority to His disciples, empowering them to overcome the forces of darkness. This authority is not limited to the apostles; it is available to all believers who walk in obedience to Christ. We have the power to resist the devil and his schemes.
4. The Authority of God’s Word (Hebrews 4:12)
"For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart." The Word of God is not merely a collection of words; it is a powerful, living force. It possesses divine authority to transform lives, to heal wounds, and to expose the hidden depths of our hearts. When we speak and live by God’s Word, we wield a powerful weapon against the enemy.
5. The Authority of Jesus’ Name (Mark 16:17)
"And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues." The name of Jesus carries immense power and authority. Through His name, we can access His power to heal the sick, cast out demons, and perform miracles. This is not a magic formula, but a demonstration of faith in the power of Christ.
6. The Authority of the Holy Spirit in Us (Acts 1:8)
"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." The Holy Spirit empowers us to be witnesses for Christ. He equips us with spiritual gifts, enabling us to serve God effectively. This authority is not our own; it is the power of God working through us.
7. The Authority Delegated to the Church (Matthew 18:18)
"Truly, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." Jesus gave the church authority to exercise discipline, to proclaim the Gospel, and to build up the body of Christ. This authority is exercised in unity and submission to God’s Word.
8. The Authority of God’s Servants (Matthew 10:1)
"And he called to him his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every affliction." God delegates authority to His servants, equipping them to carry out His work. This authority is not for personal gain, but for the advancement of God’s kingdom.
9. Authority over Life’s Circumstances (Philippians 4:13)
"I can do all things through him who strengthens me." Through Christ, we have authority over the challenges and circumstances of life. This does not mean we will always have easy lives, but it means we can face any situation with confidence, knowing that God is with us and will strengthen us.
10. The Call to Live Under God’s Authority (James 4:7)
"Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." The key to walking in God’s authority is submission to Him. When we submit to His will, we align ourselves with His power. Resisting the devil is not a matter of our own strength, but of standing firm on the authority of Christ.
- Preaching on Blasphemy Against the Holy Spirit Matthew 12:31-32
- Preaching on Greed: A Destructive Power
- Preaching on Arrogance: Avoiding the Fall
Conclusion
Let us embrace the authority that comes from heaven. Let us submit to God’s sovereign rule, walk in the power of the Holy Spirit, and wield the sword of His Word. Let us exercise the authority He has given us to overcome evil, to serve Him faithfully, and to advance His kingdom. May we live lives that reflect the glory and power of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
