How can we discern true spiritual authority in our lives today? The Moment with John the Baptist John 1:24: “Now those who had been sent were from the Pharisees.” Why This Snapshot Matters • A respected religious delegation evaluates John’s ministry. • They carry institutional weight but still need to verify John’s authority. • The scene shows that religious title alone does not equal true authority; the test is whether God is truly speaking through the messenger. Key Clues in the Passage • God-given Calling – John speaks and baptizes because he was “sent” (v. 6, 23), not self-appointed. • Christ-centered Message – He points away from himself: “I am not the Christ” (v. 20) and points to “the Lamb of God” (v. 29). • Humility – “Among you stands One you do not know, the straps of whose sandals I am unworthy to untie” (v. 26-27). • Fruit of Repentance – Crowds are turning from sin, preparing for Messiah (Luke 3:7-14). • Scriptural Alignment – John fulfills Isaiah 40:3 exactly, showing continuity with written revelation. Five Marks of Genuine Spiritual Authority Today 1. Anchored in Scripture • 2 Timothy 3:16-17—every true servant submits to God’s written word. • Teaching or counsel that contradicts Scripture is disqualified. 2. Exalts Jesus, Not Self • John 3:30—“He must increase; I must decrease.” • 1 Corinthians 2:2—Paul resolved to know nothing “except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.” 3. Produces Godly Fruit • Matthew 7:15-20—good trees bear good fruit. • Galatians 5:22-23—look for love, joy, peace, and the rest of the Spirit’s fruit. 4. Demonstrates Servant-hearted Humility • 1 Peter 5:2-3—shepherds are “examples to the flock,” not domineering. • John’s unworthiness to untie Jesus’ sandals reflects this posture. 5. Confirmed by the Body of Christ • Acts 13:2-3—leaders recognized and sent Paul and Barnabas. • Hebrews 13:7, 17—healthy leaders earn trust through consistent, observable lives. Practical Ways to Discern Authority • Search the Scriptures daily like the Bereans (Acts 17:11). • Observe character over time; charisma fades, character endures. • Listen for a Christ-focused message, not personal brand-building. • Assess the spiritual fruit in those influenced—are people growing in holiness and love? • Invite counsel from mature believers; authority confirmed in community guards against deception. • Stay yielded to the Holy Spirit (1 John 2:27); He affirms what is truly from God. Living Under Christ’s Ultimate Authority Jesus is “the true Light” (John 1:9), and every voice worth following will point straight to Him. As we keep our Bibles open, our hearts humble, and our eyes on the Lamb of God, we can confidently welcome servants He sends and gently resist claims to authority that do not bear His unmistakable marks. |
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