What is Spiritual Authority?

Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you (Lk. 10:19 ESV).

If we have to enjoy the benefits of the Kingdom of God and live victoriously in this present evil world,  we must fully understand and put to work our spiritual authority in Christ. Jesus said above that He has given us authority to tread over serpents and scorpions and over all the power of the enemy. But what is spiritual authority?

Power in principle is ability to command or produce changes. There are several Greek words used in the New Testament for power, but the one translated “power” above is dunamis. It is “inherent power” or “power residing in a thing by virtue of its nature.”  Beings and things have different types and degrees of power, but all power ultimately comes from God. 

Authority is the right and liberty to use power. The crucial word to understand is CONTROL. It is the ability to exercise control over other beings or inanimate things. It is especially important to us as it applies to our ability to CONTROL other  beings( principally demonic) who in themselves also have power(dunamis). Did you see how this is used in the verse above? Jesus gave us authority over all the power of the enemy. This authority is principally exercised by words. Satan and demonic spirits understand spiritual authority more than we do now. When you speak, they know power is released from your mouth and they will obey.

MEDITATE

Can you see how spiritual authority operates from the words of the centurion in  Matt. 8:9? Please pause, and ensure you have understood what is written above: the difference between power and authority and how authority is often exercised.

APPLY THE WORD

Spiritual authority is your rod to rule in this life. Faith is the anchor to walk in that authority( 1 John 5:4, Mark 11:23). Put spiritual authority to work in your life. The earth is waiting for the manifestation of the sons of God. It will take authority to subject the increasing darkness in the world. There is a time to show love, there is a time to use authority.

PRAY

Thank the Lord for the gift of authority to reign in life.