Authority

   Jesus when on earth was obedient to the Father even unto death on a cross. He took his orders from the Father alone. Even at the trial he tells Pilate that he would have no power over him unless it was given from above. But now because of the cross Jesus has “all” authority. That is a significant fact. Jesus becomes for all eternity the way, the truth, and the life and he makes all the calls. The Father has relinquished authority over his Son because of Jesus obedience.

   We must recognize the authority of Jesus. The centurion tells Jesus that he too is a man under authority and that soldiers are obedient to him just like sickness, disease, and evil spirits are obedient to Jesus. Authority is a kingdom principle. The king has authority because he is king. Jesus has authority because he is king. According to the book of Acts we shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you. Authority is very important. Jesus acted and performed miracles from a position of authority. He obeyed the Father because of his authority. Nobody ever told Jesus what to do except his parents growing up. He took his orders from the Father. Now not even the Father will tell Jesus what to do.

   To have authority you must know your position with God. You must be born again, filled with the Spirit, and obedient to Jesus and his word. Jesus had authority because he obeyed the Father. We have authority when we obey Jesus. To live in authority means that we can command sickness, disease, and evil spirits to depart just like Jesus did. Jesus always did those things that pleased the Father. He was one with the Father and he moved in the Spirit. We as Christians must get to the place that we obey Jesus above every other consideration. It is a paradox but the way to authority in the kingdom is through obedience. It was because Jesus was obedient that he received authority. Now “all” authority has been given him and nobody comes to God apart from him.

   To receive authority you must know your position in Christ. You must have lived by faith for without faith it is impossible to please God. You must be filled with the Spirit because those who are led by the Spirit of God are his sons and daughters. Obedience is the way to authority. Humble yourself in the presence of God and he will lift you up. Overcome natural facts, public opinion, and human logic and you will receive power and authority. Yield to God. Submit to God. Do the work of an evangelist. Then like Jesus you will enter the kingdom and receive authority, power, and dominion.

Amen