How does acknowledging Jesus' authority impact our personal relationship with Him? Scripture Spotlight “that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,” (Philippians 2:10) Acknowledging His Supreme Authority • Bowing the knee is more than a gesture; it recognizes Jesus as absolute Lord (Matthew 28:18; Revelation 19:16). • Confessing His rule unites heart, mind, and will under Him (Romans 10:9). • Because His authority is universal—“in heaven and on earth and under the earth”—no part of life lies outside His reign. Impact on Our Hearts: Worship Deepens • Awe replaces casual familiarity; we marvel at the One all creation must honor (Colossians 1:16-17). • Praise grows richer: we sing not just about a Friend but the Sovereign who spoke galaxies into being. • Gratitude heightens when we realize the Lord enthroned chose the cross for us (Philippians 2:6-8). Impact on Our Obedience: Loving Submission • “You call Me Teacher and Lord… and rightly so” (John 13:13). Recognizing that title moves us to obey without bargaining. • Love expresses itself through keeping His commands (John 14:15). • Submission isn’t loss; it brings freedom from sin’s tyranny (James 4:7; Acts 5:29). Impact on Our Confidence: Security in Him • The One with all authority guards our salvation (John 10:28-29). • His throne is a “throne of grace,” inviting bold approach for mercy and help (Hebrews 4:16). • Knowing the King holds history steadies us in uncertainty (Psalm 46:10). Impact on Our Mission: Joining His Work • His authority undergirds our commission: “Go therefore and make disciples” (Matthew 28:18-19). • Ministry becomes participation in His victorious reign, not a human project (2 Corinthians 5:20). • Serving the King reorders priorities—kingdom first, self last (Matthew 6:33). Living It Out Today • Begin each day intentionally “bowing the knee”: acknowledge His rule in prayerful surrender. • Filter decisions through the question, “Does this honor the authority of Jesus?” • Replace anxiety with trust—if He rules heaven and earth, He rules today’s details. • Let worship and witness flow naturally; lips that confess His lordship cannot stay silent about Him. When we truly acknowledge Jesus’ authority, relationship becomes intimate yet reverent—marked by deeper worship, joyful obedience, unshakable security, and purposeful mission under the King who deserves every bowed knee. |
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