When we abide in Christ, walking in cadence with Him, we have access to the same power he had, through God the Father. We tap into that power by recognizing the authority we have. Without authority we have access to none of the power that is available to us through Christ. 2 Corinthians 13:10 tells us that this authority is given to us to build up those around us and not tear us down. But that is just a taste. Matthew 10:1 tells us that with this authority we can cast out unclean spirits, heal every kind of disease and every kind of sickness. How many of us are truly walking in this authority? Until we do we cannot make true lasting change in this world.
A great example of this authority exercised is in Acts 3. Peter and John were heading to the temple to pray when they came across a man who had been lame since birth. The lame man noticed John and peter and asked them for money. They responded by saying, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.” As they began to lift him up his legs received strength. A man that had never experienced feeling in his legs began to walk. What an amazing God we serve! The lame man began to praise God while others watched on with astonishment. Peter responded, “Men of Israel, why do you marvel at this? Or why look so intently at us, as though by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk. “All of the power comes from God, but it can only flow when we recognize the authority we have in Him, and what the authority is for. It is to heal every kind of disease and sickness, cast out evil spirits, and to make disciples.
The gospel can seem upside down to those who are in the world. This is never truer than in John 13, when Jesus paints a picture of authority as servanthood. Jesus was eating supper with his disciples when he rose and laid aside his garments. He gathered a towel and filled a basin with water and began to wash the disciples’ feet. Can you imagine? God himself, washing your feet. The disciples were shocked and did not know how to react. Jesus tells them’ “You call me Teacher and Lord, and you say well, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you.”
Jesus Christ the ultimate authority has made a way for us to walk like him. To exercise our authority as servanthood. Serving others whilst illuminating darkness. “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Matt 28:17.
– Maureen Strange
