Authority is a key theme in the Bible, covering both human leadership and God’s ultimate power. Scriptures explain how people should respond to authority and how leaders should act justly. Learning what the Bible says about authority can help us better understand respect, responsibility, and the importance of a humble heart in positions of power.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About The Past
What Does The Bible Say About Authority
Matthew 28:18
Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.”
This verse establishes Jesus as the ultimate authority, both in the spiritual realm and on earth. It affirms that all power and dominion belong to Him alone, highlighting His sovereignty and divine nature.
As Christians, we should acknowledge and submit to the authority of Jesus in our lives, recognizing that He has the power to rule over all things and guide us in all areas.
Romans 13:1
Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.
This verse emphasizes the importance of respecting and submitting to earthly authorities. It reveals that all authorities are ultimately appointed by God and should be obeyed, as long as they do not contradict His commands.
As believers, we are called to be law-abiding citizens, recognizing that our obedience to earthly authorities reflects our obedience to God’s ultimate authority.
1 Peter 2:13-14
Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right.
This passage reiterates the importance of submitting to human authorities, whether it be the highest ruler or regional governors. It emphasizes that our submission is not merely for the sake of avoiding punishment but for the Lord’s sake.
As followers of Christ, we are called to honor and respect the authority of those who are in positions of leadership, recognizing that by doing so, we honor God.
Proverbs 21:1
The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; he turns it wherever he will.
This verse highlights the sovereignty of God over the hearts of rulers and leaders. It reminds us that ultimately, it is God who directs and guides their decisions according to His purposes.
As believers, we can find comfort and trust in the fact that even though human authorities may not always act righteously, God is in control and can use their decisions for His greater plan.
Hebrews 13:17
Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.
This verse emphasizes the importance of obeying and submitting to our spiritual leaders. It reminds us that they have been entrusted with the responsibility of caring for our spiritual well-being and will be accountable to God for their leadership.
As members of a church community, it is crucial to honor and support our leaders, creating an atmosphere of joy and cooperation that benefits us all.
Titus 3:1
Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good.
Here, Paul encourages believers to be submissive and obedient to rulers and authorities. He urges them to be willing to engage in acts of goodness and service, demonstrating a spirit of respect and cooperation.
As Christians, our attitude towards authorities should be one of willing submission, always ready to do what is right and honorable, serving as a positive witness to those around us.
Mark 10:42-43
Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.”
This passage contrasts the typical exercise of authority in the world with the servant leadership that Jesus desires for His followers. It highlights that greatness in the Kingdom of God is not achieved through wielding power over others but through humble service.
As Christians, we should adopt a servant’s heart, using any authority or influence we may have to uplift and serve others rather than seeking personal gain or control.
1 Timothy 2:1-2
I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.
In this passage, Paul encourages believers to pray for those in positions of authority. He emphasizes that our prayers should encompass all people, including kings and rulers, with the goal of living peaceful lives marked by godliness and holiness.
As followers of Christ, we are called to intercede for our leaders, seeking God’s guidance and blessing upon them, knowing that their decisions can significantly impact society.
Ephesians 6:12
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
This verse reminds us that our ultimate battle is not against human authorities but against spiritual forces of evil. It acknowledges the existence of spiritual powers that seek to impose darkness and deception in the world.
As Christians, we should recognize the spiritual dimension of our struggle and engage in prayer and spiritual warfare, seeking God’s strength to overcome the forces that oppose His righteous reign.
Acts 5:29
Peter and the other apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than human beings!”
When faced with a command that contradicted God’s will, Peter and the apostles chose to prioritize obedience to God over obedience to human authorities. They recognized that God’s authority supersedes any earthly power.
As believers, we should earnestly seek to discern God’s will and be willing to stand firm in obedience to Him, even if it means going against the expectations or commands of human authorities.
Matthew 28:19-20
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.
Known as the Great Commission, this verse highlights Jesus’ authority to send His disciples to make disciples of all nations. He empowers them to baptize new believers and teach them to obey His commands.
As followers of Christ, we are commissioned by Jesus Himself to share the Gospel, lead others to Him, and teach them to live in obedience to His teachings. We can take comfort in the promise that He will be with us always as we fulfill this mission.
Philippians 2:9-11
Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
This passage exalts Jesus as the name that is above every other name. It declares that one day, every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
As believers, we should recognize and proclaim the authority of Jesus, acknowledging Him as the Lord of our lives. We eagerly await the day when His authority will be universally acknowledged and honored.
Colossians 1:16-17
For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.
This verse emphasizes that all things were created through Jesus, and He is the sustainer of all things. It asserts His supreme authority over thrones, powers, rulers, and authorities, both visible and invisible.
As believers, we can find assurance and peace in knowing that Jesus reigns supreme over all creation, and He holds everything together. We can trust in His authority to guide and provide for us.
Psalm 62:11
Once God has spoken; twice have I heard this: that power belongs to God.
This verse affirms that power belongs to God alone. It declares that His authority is unmatched and unquestionable.
As believers, we can draw strength and confidence from the knowledge that the ultimate power rests in the hands of our Creator. We can trust in His authority to lead and guide us in every aspect of our lives.
2 Chronicles 20:6
and said, “O Lord, God of our fathers, are you not God in heaven? You rule over all the kingdoms of the nations. In your hand are power and might, so that none is able to withstand you.
This verse acknowledges God’s rule and authority over all kingdoms and nations. It recognizes that He possesses unrivaled power and might, against which no one can stand.
As believers, we can rest in the assurance that our God is sovereign over all, and His authority surpasses that of any earthly ruler or kingdom. We can trust in His ability to accomplish His purposes and bring forth justice and righteousness.
Daniel 2:21
He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.
This verse reveals God’s authority to determine times, seasons, and rulers. It declares His ability to depose kings and exalt others according to His divine will.
As believers, we can find comfort in the fact that our God is in control of all circumstances and can bring about change according to His wisdom and purposes. We can trust in His sovereignty and seek His guidance in every season of life.
Psalm 2:10-11
Therefore, you kings, be wise; be warned, you rulers of the earth. Serve the Lord with fear and celebrate his rule with trembling.
This passage calls upon earthly rulers to acknowledge and serve the Lord with reverence and awe. It encourages them to celebrate His righteous rule and to govern with wisdom and understanding.
As believers, we can pray for those in positions of authority, asking that they embrace God’s wisdom and govern in a way that aligns with His righteous principles. We can also honor and support leaders who demonstrate a reverence for God.
Psalm 33:12
Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people he chose for his inheritance.
This verse declares the blessedness of a nation that recognizes the Lord as its God. It highlights the privilege and honor of being chosen by God as His people.
As citizens, we can strive to establish and promote a society that honors God, seeking His guidance and aligning ourselves with His principles. We can pray for our nation to acknowledge and embrace His authority.
Psalm 118:8-9
It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in humans. It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in princes.
This passage emphasizes the superiority of trusting in the Lord over placing our trust in human beings, including rulers and authorities. It affirms that God alone is our true refuge and source of security.
As believers, we are reminded to prioritize our trust in God, recognizing that human authorities, though important, are fallible. We can find solace and strength in knowing that our ultimate hope rests in Him.
Psalm 22:28
For dominion belongs to the Lord and he rules over the nations.
This verse proclaims that dominion belongs to the Lord, and He exercises His rule over all nations. It affirms His rightful place as the supreme ruler.
As believers, we can find peace in the knowledge that God’s authority transcends national boundaries and political powers. We can trust in His sovereignty and pray for His will to be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Psalm 103:19
The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all.
This verse declares that God’s throne is established in heaven, and His kingdom reigns over all things. It affirms His absolute sovereignty and authority over the entire universe.
As believers, we can take comfort in knowing that our God is firmly seated on His throne, directing the affairs of the world with wisdom and righteousness. We can trust in His reign, both now and for all eternity.
Revelation 19:16
On his robe and on his thigh, he has this name written: king of kings and lord of lords.
This verse describes Jesus with the name “King of kings and Lord of lords” written on His robe and thigh. It signifies His absolute authority and supremacy over all other rulers and authorities.
As believers, we can rejoice in the exalted position of Jesus as the ultimate King and Lord. We can bow before Him in reverence and wholeheartedly submit to His sovereign rule.
Revelation 5:13
Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, saying: “To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!”
This verse describes a scene of unified worship, with every creature proclaiming praise, honor, and glory to God and the Lamb. It depicts the universal acknowledgment of their divine authority.
As believers, we join in this chorus of worship, recognizing and ascribing praise to God and Jesus for their unmatched authority and power. We can eagerly await the day when every knee will bow and every tongue confess their lordship.