Luke 4:31,36 – They were astonished at his teaching, because he spoke with authority…they were all amazed and kept saying to one another, "What kind of utterance is this? For with authority and power he commands…"

Matthew 28:18 – Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me."

Someone once told me that to look like you have authority in ministry you need:

glasses to look intelligent;
grey hair to look wise;
and hemorrhoids to look concerned.

I guess two out of three isn't all that bad, so why do I, and countless ministers of the church feel a lack of authority, especially in a time in the church's life when ministers are being asked to do more and be responsible for more?

The question of authority has been a central issues since the ministry of our Lord, and indeed was always the most pressing question asked of the prophets of old: "By what authority do you do and say the things you do and say?"

Christians recognize authority in the person of Jesus Christ — "This is my son, the Beloved,… listen to him", and in the words of scripture which we claim as our "only rule for faith and life."

Listen to the voice of God, speaking to you through scriptures, through the Living Christ, through the saints, and through your experience. And in them all, hear, and obey, the voice of God.

Prayer: Living Lord of the Church, remind me anew of your place in my life and the authority you exercise over every aspect of my life. Let me offer myself today in your service, through Jesus Christ my Lord. Amen.

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About the author:

Kenn Stright <kennethstright@yahoo.ca>
West Petpeswick, Nova Scotia, Canada
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