Approaching God
Do we realize who we serve? We serve the Lord of the universe. We serve the one who has all authority in heaven and on earth. We serve the King! Let that sink in and humble yourself and praise this King of Kings.
“Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on 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.’” (Matthew 28:18-20)
Listening to God
Now consider this truth, the King has given His authority in heaven and earth to His disciples.
“Jesus called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease and sickness.” (Matthew 10:1)
Have we ever truly considered the authority we have been given? Have we taken it to heart? Have we taken it seriously? Have we acted on it as true?
Talking to God
Jesus has given us authority and sent us out. But authority, like any gift, is only effective when it is exercised and used. Ask God to show you where you have authority but are not using it. Confess your unbelief or your fear or whatever God reveals that has been hindering your use of this gift.
Responding to God
If we have listened we now have a renewed sense of the authority we have and where God wants us to use it. Ask His help to be aware of when you can use that authority to battle the enemy and bring God’s kingdom. As He shows you begin to act on it. As you see the results praise God for His goodness and power. Give Him all the credit.
Surrendering to God
“I am in awe of and wonder at the authority you have bestowed on me. I believe it is mine, help me in my unbelief. Help me to be bold in using it. Lord, I praise you as my King. Help me to give you all the praise as you work your wonders in and through me.
By Bob Boersma
A HISTORICAL SIDEBAR
Christian unity and the breaking of such unity was a serious point of emphasis for many Reformers. They did not leave the Roman church willingly or quickly; rather, they left reluctantly and many times were forced out. The Colloquy of Regensburg (1541) was the final attempt at compromise between the Protestants and Catholics. Sadly, it failed. As time went on, the Reformers began to see the separation differently. As one modern writer puts it, “It was not the Reformers who had departed from the true church. It was Rome that had departed from the true gospel.” It was in the gospel – as the gospel of Jesus Christ – that the Reformers found their true unity.
