The Authority Test

How do we honor authority?

Honor sounds and looks like something but is ultimately a reflection of the posture of our hearts. When we honor authority we are showing trust in God and in his plan and purpose for our lives.

 

What does God say about authority?

  • God’s word is an authority for establishing truth
  • 2 Timothy 3:16-17 “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
  • If the entirety of scripture is inspired by God, then we can establish it as an authoritative expression of God himself
  • God’s word has to be a standard that we use as a baseline for what to believe 

 

  • All authority is permitted and established by God
  • Romans 13:1-2 “Everyone must submit to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those that exist are instituted by God. So then, the one who resists the authority is opposing God’s command, and those who oppose it will bring judgment on themselves.”
  • Paul is making a clear call for believers to respect people in positions of authority and is so bold to even go on to say that no one is given authority except by God
  • When we make the decision to dishonor authority, the Bible actually says we’re bringing judgment on ourselves
  • Even Jesus submitted to authority
  • Authority of his Parents: Jesus’ very first miracle honored the request of his mom; John 2
  • Authority of his Father: “I only do what I see my Father doing;” John 5:19
  • Authority of the Law: Jesus paid the temple tax; Matthew 17:24-26
  • Authority of Government: Jesus recognized authority given to those in the Roman government; John 19:10-11 

 

  • God’s command to respect authority came with a promise
  • Ephesians 6:1 “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’—which is the first commandment with a promise— ‘so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.’”
  • God put people in positions of authority to guide us, protect us and help us grow

 

Facilitating Discussion

  1. What is your heart’s posture toward people in positions of authority?
  2. What is your default response to authority? Respect? Honor? Rebellion? Suspicion?