Matthew 8:8-9 The centurion replied, “Lord, I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed. For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and that one, ‘Come,’ and he comes. I say to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”

This is a statement of extreme importance, because it blew Jesus’ mind, and that was hardly an easy thing to do to the Son of God! He said it was because of the centurion’s faith, but we need to consider how that faith was expressed. Even Jesus’ apostles were shocked when He exercised authority over natural forces, (Mark 4:35-41) but this Roman understood and believed that Jesus could command disease as easily as he himself could tell a servant to do something. We need such faith! The centurion understood that Jesus was under the authority of the Creator of the universe, and as such, that authority flowed through Him toward everything in creation. That situation hasn’t changed! In fact, just before rising to heaven after His resurrection, Jesus stated clearly, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” (Matthew 28:18) We quote that verse as part of the Great Commission, but I don’t think we really meditate on all its implications. All means all, with no exceptions. The devil tries to tell us that this, that, or the other problem is too big for even God to handle, so there’s no use praying about it. He’s a liar, as always. If we understand the authority of God, then we will be absolutely bold in our prayers. That’s not the same as presumption; we can’t dictate to God, nor should we try. However, to the degree that we are submitted to His authority, that authority will flow through us to accomplish His will, not what our flesh desires. Jesus’ submission to the Father is demonstrated in His crucifixion, from Gethsemane onward. We too need to pray, “Not my will, but Yours be done.” (Luke 22:42) There is more power in such prayer than we have imagined.

I have always had an ambivalent attitude toward authority. As any young person does, I had my period of questioning my parents’ authority, but I think I learned earlier than many that they generally knew what they were talking about. External authority was a different matter, however, and I still tend to be skeptical of “experts.” That attitude has certainly been validated by the pandemic and other recent events! However, I must not let that push me toward rebellion against God’s authority. That is in another class, another dimension. I spoke yesterday on hearing God. He does indeed speak to us, and my attitude needs to be instant obedience. I’ve got room to grow. I wish that “stubborn” weren’t such an appropriate adjective for me! I tend to be hesitant to exercise authority, which isn’t always good. Church discipline is of great importance, and I must not let it slide. As Paul said, such authority is given me to build people up, not tear them down. (2 Corinthians 10:8) I am to exercise it in full submission to Holy Spirit so that the result will be God’s will being done, and not just what is convenient for me. I am to proclaim and exercise the Lordship of Jesus Christ in this church, this city, and this nation, not insisting on my time frame but knowing with full assurance that it will be done, for the glory of God.

Father, thank You for this powerful reminder. Help me not just say, that’s nice, and then go on as usual. Help me be the agent of Your authority that You have created me to be, for the salvation of many and for Your glory. Thank You. Hallelujah!