Then Pilate said to Him, “Are You not speaking to me? Do You not know that I have power to crucify You, and power to release You?”
Jesus answered, “You could have no power at all against Me unless it had been given you from above. Therefore the one who delivered Me to you has the greater sin.” John 19:10-11 (ESV)
Source of Authority
Last year, my son Judah was studying civics. We did a Constitution study called Constitutional Literacy. (Side Note: I highly recommend this study for everyone – not just homeschoolers. It was eye-opening and created many lively discussions.)
During one section, the video teacher was talking about how there has been a usurping of authority by different groups in the government.
Don’t tune me out! ***This is not a political statement on current leaders. This is an ongoing problem that has been chipping away at our constitutional republic for decades.***
As I read John 19:10,
Jesus answered, “You could have no power at all against Me unless it had been given you from above. Therefore the one who delivered Me to you has the greater sin.”
The Source of Authority
I thought about authority. Authority is given. It has a source.
God is the source of all authority.
Sometimes I get angry with the authorities in my life, but who is the ultimate target of my anger? God, the source of authority.
My Response to Authority
People in power can do wrong. They may indeed use their power unwisely and abuse their authority. However, my response is what I can control. My response can’t be anger. It has to be prayer.
First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 (ESV)
Jesus had every right to be angry with the way He was treated. But He did not respond with anger because He knew the source of all authority. He knew that God had a plan.
God still has a plan for each of us? I don’t always act like I remember that fact. 🙂
Action Step:
What is my response to authority? Whether it is the president, a police officer, a boss, my pastor, my father, or my husband, God has put people in authority over me. Am I praying for them or just resenting them when their power conflicts with what I want?
Prayer:
Dear God, You are the source of all authority. Help me to pray for those in authority over me. Enable me to refrain from anger and respond with respect. Give me Your perspective today. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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