How can acknowledging Christ's authority impact our worship and service? Christ’s royal authority: Revelation 1:6 “and has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father— to Him be the glory and power forever and ever! Amen.” What acknowledging His authority means • Christ is King—He possesses “glory and power forever.” • Christ makes us “a kingdom” under His rule and “priests” who serve in His presence. • Because this is literally true, every part of life comes under His throne. Supporting light • “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” (Matthew 28:18) • “He is the head of the body, the church… so that in all things He may have preeminence.” (Colossians 1:18) Impact on our worship • Bowed hearts—Philippians 2:9-11 shows every knee will bow; we choose to bend now. • Continuous praise—Hebrews 13:15 urges “a sacrifice of praise” offered through Jesus. • God-centered gatherings—songs, prayers, preaching spotlight His reign, not our preferences. • Reverent obedience—worship is more than music; it is submission to His spoken Word. Practical checkpoints – Begin and end each day declaring, “Yours is the glory and power.” – Sing lyrics that exalt His sovereignty. – Read Scripture aloud, letting His royal decrees shape thoughts and attitudes. Impact on our service • Kingdom allegiance—our talents, time, and treasure are deployed for the King’s agenda, not our own. • Priestly ministry—1 Peter 2:9: we intercede for others and represent God to a watching world. • Living sacrifices—Romans 12:1 calls us to offer our bodies; nothing is off-limits. • Courage in mission—because authority is His, we serve confidently, knowing success rests on Him. Practical checkpoints – Ask before every task, “How does this honor the King?” – Treat workplaces, homes, and neighborhoods as priestly outposts. – Serve without grumbling; royal assignments carry royal dignity. – Share the gospel boldly—the King’s command (Matthew 28:19-20) comes with His power. Living it out today 1. Start each week rereading Revelation 1:6; let the words “glory and power” recalibrate priorities. 2. List current commitments; surrender each to Christ’s authority. 3. Schedule intentional acts of priestly service—encouraging a believer, praying for a neighbor, meeting a need. 4. Celebrate victories by immediately reflecting glory back to Him, echoing Revelation’s doxology. As we consciously acknowledge Christ’s authority, worship becomes wholehearted exaltation, and service becomes joyful, kingdom-driven ministry—both flowing from the unshakable truth that the risen Lord reigns now and forever. |
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