In the biblical context, "position" and "authority" are deeply intertwined concepts that reflect the divine order established by God for governance, leadership, and societal structure. These concepts are evident throughout Scripture, where God ordains certain individuals and institutions to wield authority for the purpose of maintaining order, justice, and righteousness.

Divine Authority

The ultimate authority belongs to God, who is sovereign over all creation. Psalm 103:19 declares, "The LORD has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all." God's authority is absolute and serves as the foundation for all other forms of authority. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is recognized as having been given all authority by the Father. Matthew 28:18 records Jesus saying, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me."

Human Authority

Human authority is derived from God and is meant to reflect His justice and righteousness. Romans 13:1-2 instructs, "Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God. Consequently, whoever resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves." This passage underscores the belief that governmental and institutional authorities are established by God to maintain order and execute justice.

Authority in the Family

The Bible outlines a structure of authority within the family unit. Ephesians 5:22-24 states, "Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, His body, of which He is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything." This passage emphasizes the husband's role as the head of the family, reflecting Christ's relationship with the Church. However, it is balanced by the call for husbands to love their wives sacrificially, as Christ loved the Church (Ephesians 5:25).

Authority in the Church

The New Testament also addresses authority within the Church. Elders and overseers are appointed to shepherd the flock and maintain doctrinal purity. 1 Peter 5:1-3 exhorts, "As a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings, and a partaker of the glory to be revealed, I appeal to the elders among you: Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you, watching over them—not out of compulsion, but because it is God’s will; not out of greed, but out of eagerness; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock." This passage highlights the servant-leadership model that is to characterize church authority.

Servant Leadership

Jesus taught that true authority is exercised through service and humility. In Mark 10:42-45 , Jesus contrasts worldly authority with godly leadership: "You know that those regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their superiors exercise authority over them. But it shall not be this way among you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be the slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many." This teaching underscores the principle that authority in the Kingdom of God is not about domination but about serving others selflessly.

Conclusion

The biblical view of position and authority is rooted in the understanding that all authority originates from God and is to be exercised in accordance with His will and character. Whether in the family, the church, or society at large, authority is a stewardship entrusted by God, requiring humility, justice, and a commitment to serving others.