The Source of Authority

Matthew 21:23 And when he was come into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came unto him as he was teaching, and said, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority?

INTRODUCTORY THOUGHTS

The question concerning duly authorized or appointed authority is crucial. Although the question above originated with the chief priests and elders, it remains a good question. What was the Lord’s authority for the things He was doing, and from what or whom did this authority originate? It is under this microscope that everything in life should be examined. The Lord’s authority was Himself (or His Father), and so it should be with the New Testament believer. Everything believed or done should be believed or done because it is the will of the Lord. Unfortunately, the typical believer today has other competing authorities such as feelings, experience, and even peers that often lead to unscriptural beliefs and works.

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS

(For children):The Lord Jesus is God and we know Him through His word (John 1:1, 14; John 5:39). He is in complete control (Colossians 1:16-19; 1 Peter 3:22). As such, He is our authority and we do what He says (Matthew 28:18-20).

(For everyone):What is your authority for the things you believe? What is your authority for the things you do in the work of the Lord? Is it possible that you have the wrong authority?

(For everyone):How can having the wrong authority affect the believer? How can it eventually lead you out of the will of God, and into false doctrine?

PRAYER THOUGHTS

Ask the Lord to give you clarity on the origin of godly authority.

Ask the Lord to help you have the right authority.

SONG

Give Me Thy Heart

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