This week, we're talking about authority. What does it mean? Who has it? And how do we use it?
Jesus was constantly being asked about his authority. The religious leaders wanted to know by what authority he was doing the things he was doing. They wanted to trap him, but Jesus was too wise for that. He answered their question with a question of his own, and they were stumped.
The truth is, we're all asked about our authority on a daily basis. Maybe it's our boss asking us to do something we don't want to do. Maybe it's our kids asking us for something we know is bad for them. Or maybe it's our spouse asking us to change something about ourselves.
No matter who's asking, the question is the same: why should I listen to you?
In the passage we read today, Jesus tells us that our authority comes from God. He says, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me." And if it's been given to him, then it's been given to us too.
So, how do we use our authority wisely? We use it to serve others. We use it to love others. We use it to build up others.
We don't use our authority to control others. We don't use it to manipulate others. We don't use it to hurt others.
When we use our authority wisely, we're reflecting the image of God. We're showing the world what it means to be a true leader.
So, next time you're asked about your authority, remember that it comes from God. And use it wisely.
