The Greek word “exousia” is often translated in the English New Testament as “authority” — as in the sense of having the ability and/or power/force coupled with the right, freedom, or privilege.
Through a little diligent study of the New Testament, one will discover 5 ranges or scopes (areas) of “authority” clearly distinguished within the biblical text.
- GOD – is the ultimate source of all power and authority with the absolute freedom of action without being controlled by necessity nor restraint. This is plainly illustrated in Romans 9:21 – “Or does not the potter have a right over the clay, to make from the same lump one vessel for honorable use and another for common use?”
- RULERS & LEADERS – are granted subordinate power/authority in society (kings, magistrates, owners, stewards, etc.), as well as in the Church (pastors, elders, leaders, etc.), with Christ being seated above all “rule and authority and power and dominion” in Ephesians 1:20-21. While it may seem odd, this is also true of Satan and his agents in connection with their sphere of power/authority. When humanity rebelled against God and sinned against Him, He withdrew His presence, but not His ownership! Remember, “The earth is the Lord’s, and all it contains, the world, and those who dwell in it.” — Psalm 24:1 In addition, the devil could not assault Job without permission!
- CHRIST – the authority and power exercised by the Lord within the framework of His commission is incomparable, unmatched by any individual! He has the authority, power, and the right to forgive sins (Mark 2:10), cast out demons (Mark 3:15), teach as no other (Matthew 7:29), raise the dead (Luke 7:12-15), heal the blind (Luke 18:35-43), calm the sea (Mark 4:38-41), even exercise judgment (John 5:27), and demonstrate irrefutable discernment (John 4:17-18) … all of which is granted by the Father to reveal Christ’s divinity and enhance His Gospel.
- THE APOSTLES – were sent forth by Christ Himself with great authority! In one case they were celebrating because the demons were subject to them. (Luke 10:17-19) However, the Lord quickly reminded them in verse 20 … “Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are recorded in heaven.”
This is not, of course, an absolute or inherent authority. It is an authority granted by the commissioning of Christ. Hence, the elements of responsibility are prominent with the charge, and it is essential that the apostles make proper use of this (HIS) authority/power. In addition, these leaders are provided financial support by the believers, while they teach and guide — with authority — the development and ministries of Christ’s Church.
5. CHRIST’S CHURCH – which is made up of individual believers, is a divine institution created by Christ for the benefit of its membership, the continuation of Christ’s earthly ministry in His physical absence, and the fulfillment of His great commission of making disciples. Therefore, each individual, as well as each New Testament Church body, has authority granted to it by its head/leader, Jesus Christ, according to Matthew 28:18-20:
And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.
What shall we, as believers, make of / say to these things?
NOW — think about that! –Pastor Frank