Authority!

Authority is something that creates a real challenge for some. There are those who refuse to acknowledge authority and rebel against it. Then there are those who have authority and abuse it. Being under authority may not always provide all the freedom some desire and having authority may be difficult for some to handle, but Paul acknowledged even worldly authority had its purpose. (read Romans 13:1-7) Without recognizing various levels of authority, this world would be in greater chaos and conflict than it presently is.

Now, Paul had authority. He was chosen by the Lord ( Acts 9:15) to be an Apostle; one sent out as an ambassador for Christ ( 2 Corinthians 5:20) with the message of salvation in Him. However, even with that authority Paul remained humble and did not always exercise it as he could have. His desire was to use his apostolic authority in as beneficial a manner as he could. Perhaps this perspective is no better expressed than in his own words written toward the end of his second letter to the church at Corinth.

We read. . .
"(10) For this reason I write these things while I am away from you, that when I come I may not have to be severe in my use of the AUTHORITY that the Lord has given me FOR BUILDING UP AND NOT FOR TEARING DOWN." ( 2 Corinthians 13:10 ESV)

What a remarkable focus Paul seemed to maintain. The authority he had was not self-serving, but Christ-centered. He had a heart for service to do whatever was necessary for the spiritual growth of others. If confrontation was necessary he would do it. He made that clear in this same letter. ( 2 Corinthians 10:1-2 and 13:2) However, Paul's greatest desire was always to BUILD UP others in the faith as he himself lived a life surrendered to the authority of Christ.

Whether we are under authority or find ourselves in a position of authority, let us also remember what it is to be all about. Our greatest goal is to point the attention of others to Christ Who is the Supreme Authority before whom all will someday bow. (i.e. 2 Corinthians 5:10) Let us therefore pray for all those in authority ( 1 Timothy 2:1-2) that they may be willing to acknowledge the Will of God and thus make decisions that will truly provide what is best. Also, rather than joining in the tearing down of others, may we -- like Paul -- strive to do what we can to BUILD UP others through encouraging them in the Way of Christ.

Have a great day EXALTING CHRIST AND HIS WILL IN WHATEVER ROLE WE FIND OURSELVES!
Carl

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