In what ways can we recognize and respond to God's authority today? The Setting: God’s Unyielding Claim (Exodus 4:23) “‘Let My son go, so that he may worship Me.’ But you refused to let him go. Now I will kill your firstborn son!” • God calls Israel His “firstborn,” asserting exclusive ownership and covenantal authority. • Pharaoh’s resistance sets up a clear contrast: yielding to God brings life and worship; resisting Him invites judgment. Recognizing His Authority Today • Scripture — “All Scripture is God-breathed…” (2 Timothy 3:16). The inerrant Word still speaks with final authority. • Christ’s Lordship — “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” (Matthew 28:18) • The Holy Spirit — “He will guide you into all truth.” (John 16:13) • Creation’s Witness — “The heavens declare the glory of God.” (Psalm 19:1) • Providence & Discipline — “Whom the Lord loves He disciplines.” (Hebrews 12:6) • Delegated Authorities — “There is no authority except from God.” (Romans 13:1) Responding with Whole-Hearted Obedience • Worship — Israel was freed to “worship.” We gather and sing because He commands and deserves it (Hebrews 10:25). • Obedience — “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” (John 14:15) • Surrender — “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice.” (Romans 12:1) • Reverent Fear — “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge.” (Proverbs 1:7) • Bold Allegiance — “We must obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29) Practical Rhythms for Daily Submission • Start each day in the Word; let God’s voice set the agenda. • Pray in real-time: invite His direction before decisions, not after. • Participate faithfully in a local church; authority is reinforced in community. • Practice quick repentance; soften your heart before it hardens like Pharaoh’s. • Serve others; authority expressed through love mirrors Christ’s example (Mark 10:45). Warnings When We Resist • Pharaoh lost his firstborn; persistent rebellion still carries loss (Galatians 6:7-8). • Hard hearts grow colder with every “no” (Hebrews 3:12-13). Encouragement from Christ’s Finished Work • Jesus, the true Firstborn (Colossians 1:15), bore judgment so we could be adopted sons and daughters (Galatians 4:4-7). • Because His blood covers us, obedience flows from gratitude, not fear of condemnation (Romans 8:1). |
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