Power and authority can be used for good or harm. Today, we’ll explore what the Bible teaches about using power wisely and how God’s ultimate authority shapes our lives.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Liberty
What Does The Bible Say About Power And 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 declares that Jesus has been given all authority in both heaven and earth. It emphasizes His sovereignty and power over all things.
Acts 1:8
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
This verse speaks of the power that believers receive when the Holy Spirit comes upon them. It empowers them to be witnesses for Christ and spread the gospel to the ends of the earth.
Matthew 10:1
Jesus called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease and sickness.
This verse illustrates Jesus giving His disciples authority to perform miracles and cast out demons. It showcases the power and authority He entrusted to His followers.
Psalm 62:11
One thing God has spoken, two things I have heard: “Power belongs to you, God.”
Here, the psalmist acknowledges that power belongs to God. It acknowledges God’s supreme authority and emphasizes His unlimited power.
2 Corinthians 12:9
But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.
This verse reminds us that God’s power is made perfect in our weaknesses. It urges us to find strength in our dependence on Christ, as His power rests upon us.
Ephesians 1:21
far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.
This verse highlights the exalted position of Jesus Christ, who is above all rule, authority, and power, both in the present age and the age to come.
2 Timothy 1:7
For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.
Here, we are reminded that the Holy Spirit empowers us with boldness, love, and self-discipline. It assures us that we do not need to be timid because of the power we have in Him.
Psalm 147:5
Great is our Lord and mighty in power; his understanding has no limit.
This verse declares the greatness and might of our Lord, emphasizing that His power is limitless. It reassures us of His sovereignty and wisdom.
Colossians 1:16
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.
This verse establishes that all things were created through Christ and for Him. It highlights His authority over all things, visible and invisible.
1 Corinthians 4:20
For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power.
This verse reminds us that the kingdom of God is not mere words, but it is characterized by the power of God. It emphasizes the transformative and impactful nature of God’s kingdom.
1 Peter 5:6
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.
This verse encourages humility before God’s mighty hand, recognizing that it is through His power that we are lifted up and exalted in His perfect timing.
Psalm 110:1
The Lord says to my lord: “Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.”
Here, the psalmist speaks of the authority and power of the Lord, who holds dominion and triumphs over His enemies. It foreshadows the reign of Jesus Christ.
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 teaches us to honor and submit to the governing authorities, acknowledging that they have been established by God’s authority. It reminds us that even earthly authorities are under God’s ultimate sovereign rule.
Psalm 91:1
Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
This verse promises rest and protection for those who dwell in the shelter of the Most High. It assures us of the security found in God’s powerful and comforting presence.
Proverbs 8:15
By me kings reign and rulers issue decrees that are just;
Here, wisdom declares its role in elevating kings and rulers, enabling them to issue just decrees. It highlights the source of true authority and wisdom in their governance.
Psalm 2:4
The One enthroned in heaven laughs; the Lord scoffs at them.
This verse portrays the Lord’s supremacy and His response to earthly rulers who rebel against His authority. It signifies His ultimate power and unwavering sovereignty.
Romans 13:2
Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.
This verse warns against rebellion towards authority, reminding us that such rebellion is ultimately against what God has instituted. It indicates that there are consequences for defying God-ordained authority.
Hebrews 13:17
Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.
This verse encourages the submission to and confidence in leaders and their authority, highlighting their responsibility to guide and protect. It emphasizes the importance of a harmonious relationship between the leaders and those they lead.
Deuteronomy 3:22
Do not be afraid of them; the Lord your God himself will fight for you.”
In this verse, Moses reassures the Israelites that they need not fear in battle because the Lord their God will fight for them. It places their trust in God’s power and authority to deliver them from their enemies.
1 Chronicles 29:11
Yours, Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, Lord, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all.
This verse acknowledges the greatness, power, and majesty of the Lord. It declares His ownership and authority over all things, emphasizing His exalted position as the head over all.
Daniel 2:20-21
Praise be to the name of God forever and ever; wisdom and power are his. 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 praises God for His wisdom and power, recognizing His authority over changing times and seasons. It acknowledges His ability to establish and remove kings and His gift of wisdom and knowledge.
Psalm 103:19
The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all.
This verse proclaims the establishment of the Lord’s throne in heaven and affirms His kingdom’s rule over all things. It asserts God’s absolute authority and dominion.
Psalm 29:4
The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is majestic.
This verse describes the power and majesty of the Lord’s voice. It showcases the authority and impact of His spoken word.
Psalm 66:7
He rules forever by his power, his eyes watch the nations— let not the rebellious rise up against him.
This verse declares that God rules by His power and watches over the nations. It warns against rebellion and encourages submission to His authority.