The Believer’s Authority is a gift from God, given to every believer through Christ’s victory on the cross. Understanding and exercising this authority is crucial for living a victorious Christian life.
1. The Source of Our Authority
Scripture: Ephesians 1:19-21
“…and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion…”
The authority we have as believers originates from Jesus Christ. When He conquered sin and death, He was given all authority in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:18). As children of God, we share in this authority. It’s not through our own strength or merit, but through our position in Christ.
2. Understanding Our Position
Scripture: Ephesians 2:6
“And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus…”
In Christ, we are seated in heavenly places. This is not just a future promise, but a present reality. This position signifies that we share in Christ’s authority over the powers of darkness. We are not meant to live in defeat but to walk in the victory Jesus has already secured.
3. Exercising Our Authority
Scripture: Luke 10:19
“Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you.”
Jesus has given us authority over all the power of the enemy. This authority is exercised through faith, prayer, and speaking God’s Word. When we declare the promises of God, resist the devil, and stand firm in our faith, we enforce the victory of Jesus in our lives and situations.
4. The Role of Faith
Scripture: Hebrews 11:6
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”
Faith is the key to activating our authority. We must believe in the authority Christ has given us and act on it. Doubt and fear are tactics of the enemy to keep us from exercising our God-given power. But as we grow in faith, we become bold and confident in using our authority.
5. Walking in Obedience
Scripture: James 4:7
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
Our authority is effective when we are in alignment with God’s will. Submission to God means living a life of obedience and holiness. When we are under God’s authority, we can resist the devil, and he must flee. Authority comes with responsibility, and walking in obedience ensures that we remain empowered to exercise it.
6. The Power of the Name of Jesus
Scripture: Philippians 2:9-10
“Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth…”
The name of Jesus is powerful and has been given to us as a weapon against the enemy. When we pray in the name of Jesus, we invoke His authority. Every demonic power must bow to the name of Jesus. Knowing this gives us confidence to confront and overcome challenges.
Final thought
Beloved, the authority we have as believers is a gift and a responsibility. It empowers us to live victoriously and to bring the Kingdom of God to earth. Let us walk in faith, obedience, and boldness, knowing that through Christ, we have authority over all the power of the enemy. Remember, we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us!
Call to Action:
As we close, I encourage you to reflect on the areas of your life where you need to exercise the authority given to you by Christ. Step out in faith, declare God’s Word, and walk in the victory that is already yours. Let us pray for a fresh revelation of our authority in Christ and the courage to live it out daily.
Amen.