Authority

Authority is a subject that I do not like....on many levels.  It is like "rules."  Who wants rules, or restrictions, or authority?  But a realistic look at the reasons for all of this brings us to the realization that these are important....and necessary.  Our society would not work, and we personally could not properly function without rules and authority.  So let's take a brief look at what the Bible is teaching us about the subject.

Jesus speaks to us about this.  I think one of the best passages to see Jesus as our authority is at the end of Matthew.  In talking about the apostles, "Jesus came to them and said, 'All authority in heaven and on the earth has been given to Me.  Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.  And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.' "  Notice that All Authority in heaven and earth was given to Jesus.  That is truly a broad statement, but certainly a true one.

Jesus did not soften His words when He spoke of His role.  In John 14:6, He told them, "I am the way and the truth and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through Me."  This powerful statement did not leave any room for exceptions or loopholes.  Jesus meant what He said.  He is the only way.

These statements are quite direct and final.  There is no way to find salvation...heaven...without doing so through Jesus.  Those who believe that He was a good man, maybe a prophet, but not the Son of God, not God Himself, will not find salvation.

Jesus is the authority.  And we need an authority to give us guidance and direction and purpose and ultimately, eternal life.  Jesus is the Way.  He is the truth.  And for sure He is life, real life, eternal life.  Let us follow Him, serve Him, love Him.

Thanks for reading.  Have a great week!