Introduction. Authority is the right to control and command others. Parents have it over children, teachers over students, and government over citizens. Although there are exceptions, the general purpose of authority is to create blessings and opportunity. Children are greatly blessed by their loving parents, students are guided to success by a good teacher, and citizens are blessed with freedom and prosperity. Problems only occur when those in authority are selfish or evil, or those under them will not submit.
Moses urged Israel “to fear the Lord our God, for our good always” (Deut. 6:24). Jesus said, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” (Jn. 10:10). Because God is a loving Father, Jesus a merciful Savior, and the Holy Spirit our comforter and guide, we are greatly blessed when we place ourselves under their control. They are eternal, possessing absolute power, infinite knowledge, and immeasurable love. Placing ourselves in submission to their authority is the wisest decision we could ever make. David captured all this when he said:
Moses urged Israel “to fear the Lord our God, for our good always” (Deut. 6:24). Jesus said, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” (Jn. 10:10). Because God is a loving Father, Jesus a merciful Savior, and the Holy Spirit our comforter and guide, we are greatly blessed when we place ourselves under their control. They are eternal, possessing absolute power, infinite knowledge, and immeasurable love. Placing ourselves in submission to their authority is the wisest decision we could ever make. David captured all this when he said:
- “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me” (Ps. 23:1-4).