There are two words we come across in scripture a fair bit, particularly in the New Testament- Power and Authority. In many instances, they may appear interchangeable in their use but in context, they are linked concepts that portray specific dimensions when in execution. Thus, clarity in their distinction is helpful to our Christian walk.
Jesus was asked a question by the Chief Priests:
“By what authority are You doing these things? And who gave You this authority?”(Matt 21:23b).
A brief summary can be presented as follows: ‘while power highlights the capacity to do, authority presents the legal jurisdiction and framework within which power is administrated’. So for example, an armed robber and a police officer both have power when they wield guns, yet the police officer has the backing of the law to exercise this power while the armed robber faces the wrath of the same law. Why? Because in addition to the power, the officer has authority.
The authority we wield as believers is founded on our association with God through our new birth, in our maturing, obedience and fervency in understanding the things of God. Without these ingredients of authority being clearly understood, whatever Power we wield is very likely to be abused, underused or misused.
#sly
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