Authority

“For I too am a man set under authority, with soldiers under me: and I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”
—Luke 7:8 ESV

Authority in Christ is more than a spiritual idea; it is a truth we are called to understand and live by. In Luke 7, a Roman officer had a highly valued servant who was severely ill and near death. When he heard about Jesus, he sent for Him, believing Jesus had the authority to heal with only a word.

As Jesus approached the officer’s home, the officer sent friends with a message marked by humility and faith: “Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof. Therefore, I did not presume to come to you. But say the word and let my servant be healed.”

The officer understood authority because he lived under it and exercised it. He recognized that Jesus carried divine authority. He trusted that Jesus’ word was enough.

Power vs. Spiritual Authority in Christ

Power is the ability to influence or affect others. Authority is the legitimate right to issue commands, make decisions, and act on behalf of a higher power.

Satan desires to use power through lies, fear, and deception. Yet he does not have authority over those who belong to Christ. The Lord has given believers authority over the enemy’s power. That means we can stand against the devil’s influence and refuse to submit to his lies.

“Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.”
—Luke 10:19 NKJV

This authority is a gift from our Lord. It empowers us to overcome the enemy’s power and stand firm in faith. It also helps us make sound judgments and live in freedom under God’s blessing and guidance.

The story in Luke 7:1-10 is more than an account of a miraculous healing. It is a lesson in faith and authority.

The Roman officer recognized that Jesus’ word carried power because it came from heaven’s authority. In the same way, we must learn to trust what Christ has given us and walk in faith.

Beware of the Enemy’s Lies

The enemy’s power is rooted in lies. Yet our authority is rooted in God’s truth. Christ has overcome the world. By faith in Him, we can live as overcomers.

Jesus has empowered us to resist the enemy’s influence. We should not take the enemy lightly or give place to his lies. Instead, we can stand firm in Christ’s authority and declare, “Get behind me, Satan!” For more encouragement, read: Don’t Play with the Devil Because the Devil Is Not Playing with You.

When you resist the devil, he will flee from you (James 4:7).

When we understand the authority Christ has given us, we do not have to live in fear. We can come to God with confidence, trust His word, and ask Him to help us walk in the freedom He provides.

Dear God, Your word says You have given me authority over all the power of the enemy. Teach me how to walk in what You have given me. Help me remain faithful, stand firm in Christ, and live free from bondage. Amen.