authority

Jesus said that He had all authority (Mt. 28:18). Paul stated that Jesus is Lord (Phil. 2:5-11). If Jesus has all authority, did he delegate any to anyone? We know that God raises up and takes down nations and kings (Acts. 17; Daniel), but does He delegate any authority to anyone else? Some would argue that He delegated authority to elders (Heb. 13:7, 17) but if He did, what kind of authority was it?

I wonder if we have really thought this through. I words betray us when we talk about authority. We have "song leaders" and "prayer leaders" and "leaders at the Table," all of which we have given some type of authority to. But since these are our words and not the Bible's, is this the case?

When I look at Jesus' authority, I realize that His authority was one of service (John 13:1-17). If we are going to claim some type of authority, let's at least claim His. Why should a board of directors called elders rule (dare we say lord) it over a church without concern for or understanding of the congregation. Far too often, these authority figures are out of touch with the members, yet their rule (more, opinions), stand above everyone else. And if there are protests, it is met with either lump it or leave. What happened to service?

Anyone can fall into this trap, deacons, preachers, the rich who want their way. I submit that we have no authority, and therefore, cannot delegate what we do not have. Rather what God wants is servant leaders, humble, seeking the mind or attitude of Christ, and not power. The old saying is correct, power corrupts, and Christians are not immune.

May we become servants seeking what is best of others rather than power.

hello friends

Hopefully, if this works out, I'll be putting some personal opinions on various subjects on this blog. Like many of you, I have opinions about a lot of stuff - but not an expert in any. I look forward to various ideas and comments.

welcome

Well, I'm going to try this.