And he called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. (Luke 9:1-2 ESV)
Authority
I was a youth pastor and took a bunch of teens to play capture the flag in a large warehouse, managed by a member of our church. In the midst of the crawling, dart-shooting, climbing, and capturing of flags, a security guard found us, and asked me what we were doing there.
I did not tell him that the group had voted, and decided to play our game in his factory. I did not tell him that since many of us had purchased products from this company, we had the right to be playing there. I did not tell him that since we outnumbered him, and obviously possessed ninja-type skills, he should just leave us alone.
Instead, I gave him a signed letter from the manager, who had given me authority to be there late that night.
Christians have authority to do what Jesus has commanded and commissioned us to do. We work for Him. And since He is the owner, protector, and redeemer of His Kingdom and creation, He is in charge of everything.
Christ Jesus gave the disciples, and gives US, authority to be doing His work. The disciples’ jobs were to cast out demons, cure diseases, proclaim God’s Kingdom, and to heal. Our jobs might be a bit different. But our authority comes from the same place. It comes from Jesus.
And anyone working without HIS authority is a tyrant, usurper, rebel, and trespasser.
Whether you are a teacher, a salesperson, a housewife, an engineer, a medical professional, a student, a parent, a child, a grandparent, a gardener, a McDonald’s clerk, a politician, a civil servant, or a Walmart greeter… you actually work for the One who gives you authority… Jesus.
That authority is necessary for peace, prosperity, success, hope, and joy.
