Finding Authority in Christ’s Sovereignty
The authority of the Church is not a mere human construct but a divine gift.
“By what authority are you doing these things, and who gave you this authority?” - Matthew 21:23-32
The religious leaders in Jerusalem confronted Jesus. They questioned his authority to teach and perform miracles in the temple. Little did they know that Jesus’ authority did not derive from human approval or religious credentials. Jesus did not attend the correct seminary. He was not vetted by his denomination’s Board of Ordained Ministry. Instead, Jesus’s authority was rooted in his divine sovereignty over all of creation.
The Church also finds its source in Jesus Christ’s ultimate authority. This authority is not subject to human approval or societal trends. The Church’s authority is not dependent on social media “Likes” or shares. It is a divine authority that transcends the temporal and the earthly.
Jesus told a parable after the Chief Priests and Elders of the Temple confronted him. He spoke of two sons, one who initially refused to obey his father but later repented and obeyed, and the other who promised obedience but did not follow through. Jesus used this parable to illustrate the true nature of authority in the Kingdom of God. It is not about empty words or outward appearances but about genuine obedience to the will of the Father.
The Church is called into ministry with the same humility and obedience Christ exemplified. Our authority is not to be used to exert power or control over others but to serve and lead by example. We find our authority in Christ’s example of selflessness, compassion, and love.
It is essential to recognize that our authority as the Church extends beyond the walls of our physical buildings. Just as Jesus confronted the religious leaders in the temple, we too are called to engage with the world and speak truth in the midst of confusion and doubt. Our authority is not just for ourselves but for the sake of those who desperately need the message of hope and redemption found in Christ.
In a world filled with uncertainty and shifting values, the Church’s authority remains unshaken because it is anchored in the unchanging authority of Jesus Christ. We are not called to conform to the patterns of this world but to be a light that exposes darkness and a voice that proclaims the truth.
The authority of the Church is not a mere human construct but a divine gift. It flows from Christ’s sovereignty over all of creation. Just as Jesus challenged the religious leaders of his time, we too, boldly proclaim the gospel and live out its transformative power. Our authority is not for our glory but for the glory of the One who reigns supreme over all things. May we, as members of the Church, embrace this divine authority with humility, grace, and a steadfast commitment to obedience to our heavenly Father.