Under Authority

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Matthew 28:18 Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth.”

How was Jesus able to give His disciples the instruction to go and make disciples? Simple. He had all authority in heaven and on earth. 

Interestingly, this is not the first time the Gospel of Matthew mentions Jesus’ authority.

• Matthew 7:29 – Jesus taught with real authority. 
• Matthew 9:6-8 – Jesus had the authority to forgive sins. 
• Matthew 21:18-27 – Jesus’ authority regarding the topics of prayer and cursing was challenged and he stood his ground. 
• Matthew 26:64 – Jesus has the authority to sit at God’s right hand. 
• Finally, John 3:35 notes that everything has been put into the hands of God’s Son.

As you read today, consider this: To be a follower of Jesus is to submit to His authority in every area of your life. Not in fear or trepidation, but as a response to His loving desire to shape you into the person He has made you to be.

READING & PRAYERS:

     MATTHEW 28:16-20 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)

QUESTION: Is there anything in your life you’re holding onto, unwilling to surrender to His authority? What steps can you take to surrender this area of your life over to Him so that He may further shape you into the person He made you to be? 

REAL LIFE PRACTICE: Are you overcommitting?Practice slowing down and living life at the pace of your soul by utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice daily. The app is free, and is available on iPhone and Android devices.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I confess there are areas of my life in which I have attempted to keep hidden from You. Like Adam and Eve in the garden, I’ve given into shame and have tried to hide my unhealthy decisions from You. Today, I’m grateful for the reminder that I do need to hide from You in shame, but am free to come to You so You may continue to mold and shape me into the person You’ve made me to be. Thank You for your loving grace! In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

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