What steps can we take to recognize and submit to Jesus' authority today? The Setting of Authority “Then He went down to Capernaum, a town in Galilee, and on the Sabbath He began to teach the people.” (Luke 4:31) “They were astonished at His teaching, because His message had authority.” (Luke 4:32) Recognizing His Authority in the Word • Acknowledge that Scripture is God-breathed and entirely reliable (2 Timothy 3:16). • Approach the Gospels as eyewitness testimony, not merely inspiring stories. • Read with expectancy, asking, “What command, promise, or warning is Jesus giving here?” • Memorize key texts that declare His rule: – “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” (Matthew 28:18) – “He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.” (Colossians 1:17) Submitting with Heart and Action • Love expressed in obedience: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” (John 14:15) • Confession of lordship with the mouth and surrender in the will (Romans 10:9). • Daily repentance—turning from self-rule to Christ’s rule whenever His Word exposes sin. • Allow His teaching to recalibrate desires, ambitions, and plans. Walking Under Authority in Community • Gather consistently where Scripture is taught without compromise (Acts 2:42). • Welcome pastoral oversight; godly leaders are Christ’s gift to guard and guide (Hebrews 13:17). • Practice mutual submission—brothers and sisters speaking truth in love keep hearts soft to Jesus’ commands (Ephesians 4:15–16). Living Out Authority in Daily Decisions • Begin each day by yielding schedules, finances, relationships: “Lord, direct every choice.” • Filter entertainment, conversations, and goals through Philippians 4:8. • Serve rather than dominate—Jesus’ authority is displayed in humble service (Mark 10:45). • Employ spiritual disciplines (prayer, fasting, solitude) to keep the flesh from dulling spiritual hearing. • Act promptly on convictions; delayed obedience is disobedience (James 1:22–25). Anticipating His Final Authority • Remember that the One who taught in Capernaum will return to judge the living and the dead (Acts 17:31). • Let eternity sharpen present obedience: “Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.” (1 John 3:3) • Long for the day every knee bows—and start bowing now (Philippians 2:10–11). |
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