30 Bible Verses About Authority And Power
In the Bible, authority and power are frequently mentioned as divine gifts and responsibilities. God’s authority is supreme, and He bestows power to human leaders and individuals to fulfill His will. These verses remind us of the power God holds over all creation, as well as the authority He grants to His people to influence the world in accordance with His purposes. Here are 30 Bible verses about authority and power, along with commentary.
1. Matthew 28:18 – “Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.'”
Jesus claims supreme authority over all creation. His authority is not limited by time or space, for it encompasses both heaven and earth. This declaration emphasizes the magnitude of His power and the responsibility we have to submit to His rule. Jesus, as the authoritative figure, entrusts His followers with the task of carrying out His mission on earth.
2. 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.”
Authority, whether in government or leadership, is ultimately established by God. This verse reminds us that all forms of leadership are within God’s sovereign control. As believers, we are called to honor and respect authority, acknowledging that it operates under God’s divine will. It also challenges us to consider how we respond to authority figures in our lives.
3. Matthew 16:19 – “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”
Jesus grants His disciples authority to bind and loose, symbolizing their power to declare and enforce God’s will on earth. This powerful metaphor of the “keys” signifies the authority given to the church to govern matters of faith and morality. It underscores the responsibility of Christians to make decisions aligned with God’s kingdom.
4. 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 emphasizes the importance of submitting to human authority for the sake of God’s honor. Whether in times of peace or difficulty, Christians are called to respect those in positions of power, acknowledging that God works through these authorities to maintain order and justice. The verse encourages us to uphold integrity in our dealings with governing figures.
5. Colossians 3:23 – “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”
While this verse does not directly speak about authority, it highlights that any power or authority we experience on earth should be viewed in the context of God’s ultimate authority. We are reminded to act in ways that honor God, regardless of who is in charge. Every task or responsibility is an opportunity to serve God, who is the ultimate source of all authority.
6. Psalm 62:11 – “One thing God has spoken, two things I have heard: ‘Power belongs to you, God.'”
This verse acknowledges that all power belongs to God alone. He is the ultimate source of authority and power, and all human power is derived from Him. It encourages us to rely on God’s strength and power, especially when we face challenges or need guidance in positions of authority.
7. Luke 10:19 – “I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.”
Jesus empowers His followers to overcome spiritual forces of darkness. He grants us authority to resist evil and to stand firm in faith. The promise that nothing will harm us speaks to the invincibility we have in Christ when we rely on His power and authority. This verse assures us of God’s protection as we exercise His authority.
8. John 19:11 – “Jesus answered, ‘You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above. Therefore the one who handed me over to you is guilty of a greater sin.'”
In this conversation with Pilate, Jesus acknowledges that all earthly authority is granted by God. Even in the face of opposition, Jesus recognizes God’s sovereign control over the events unfolding. This verse invites believers to trust in God’s purpose, even when earthly authority seems to be working against us.
9. Ephesians 6:10-11 – “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”
Christians are called to rely on God’s power for strength in spiritual warfare. The full armor of God is essential for standing firm against the forces of evil. This passage speaks to the empowerment that believers receive from God, who provides the authority and strength to withstand attacks and stand firm in His will.
10. Matthew 7:29 – “Because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law.”
Jesus’ authority in teaching was unlike that of the religious leaders of His time. His words carried the weight of divine authority, and people recognized the difference in His teaching. This verse highlights the uniqueness of Jesus’ power, which transcended human authority and pointed to His divine nature.
11. Revelation 1:5-6 – “And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen.”
Jesus, as the ruler of all earthly kings, holds ultimate authority over all powers and authorities. He has made believers part of a royal priesthood, entrusting us with spiritual authority to serve God. This verse calls us to recognize Jesus’ supreme authority while also understanding the responsibility we have as His representatives.
12. Romans 8:37 – “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”
God’s power, exercised through Christ, enables us to conquer all trials, tribulations, and adversities. This verse speaks to the authority we have in Christ as more than conquerors, emphasizing that His power enables us to overcome whatever challenges we may face in life.
13. 1 Corinthians 15:24 – “Then the end will come, when he hands over the kingdom to God the Father after he has destroyed all dominion, authority, and power.”
Jesus’ authority is ultimate, and He will one day restore all things to the Father. The temporary powers and authorities of this world will be abolished when God’s kingdom is fully established. This verse emphasizes the eternal nature of God’s reign and the submission of all authorities to His divine will.
14. 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.”
God’s sovereignty over rulers and nations is clear in this passage. He has the authority to remove kings and establish new ones. This verse teaches that all political power is under God’s control, and His wisdom governs the rise and fall of leaders and nations. It invites us to trust in God’s timing and plan.
15. Proverbs 8:15-16 – “By me kings reign and rulers issue decrees that are just; by me princes govern, and nobles—all who rule on earth.”
This passage highlights that all leaders, from kings to nobles, rule by the wisdom and authority of God. It underscores that the power to govern comes from God’s sovereign will. God’s wisdom provides the foundation for righteous leadership, reminding us that those in authority must seek His guidance.
16. Luke 22:25-26 – “Jesus said to them, ‘The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves.'”
Jesus redefines authority through servanthood. Unlike worldly rulers who dominate, Jesus teaches that true leadership involves humility and service. Those in positions of authority are called to lead with compassion, selflessness, and a heart to serve others, reflecting God’s love and authority.
17. Matthew 20:25-28 – “Jesus called them together and said, ‘You know that the 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, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.'”
Again, Jesus emphasizes that true authority in His kingdom is exercised through service. The world’s understanding of power is reversed in God’s kingdom, where greatness is defined by humility and the willingness to serve others. Leadership in the Christian context is not about domination, but about self-sacrifice.
18. 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.”
The Holy Spirit empowers believers to be witnesses of Christ’s truth and to spread the gospel. This power is not of our own, but is a divine gift, enabling us to fulfill God’s mission on earth. The verse underscores that the authority we have as Christians comes from God’s Spirit.
19. Psalm 110:1 – “The Lord says to my Lord: ‘Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.'”
This prophetic verse speaks to the ultimate authority of Jesus, who is seated at God’s right hand, a position of honor and power. It foreshadows Jesus’ victory over His enemies and His role as the King of Kings. It reminds us that all power is under God’s control, and Jesus’ reign is eternal.
20. 1 Corinthians 4:20 – “For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power.”
The kingdom of God is characterized not just by words but by divine power. The authority of God’s kingdom is not theoretical or abstract; it is real, transformative, and active. This verse challenges believers to live out their faith with power, demonstrating God’s presence in their lives.
21. John 10:18 – “No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father.”
Jesus speaks of His authority over His life and death. His willingness to lay down His life for us is an expression of His ultimate authority, rooted in His obedience to the Father. It shows that His power is not taken from Him, but willingly given for the sake of humanity.
22. Isaiah 40:10 – “See, the Sovereign Lord comes with power, and he rules with a mighty arm. See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him.”
This verse describes the Lord’s supreme power and authority. He rules with might, and His sovereignty is unmatched. It serves as a reminder that no earthly power compares to God’s infinite strength and that His reign is characterized by justice and reward.
23. Revelation 19:16 – “On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.”
This verse highlights the absolute authority of Christ as the supreme ruler of all. He is the King of all kings and the Lord of all lords, a declaration of His unparalleled power and sovereignty. It reminds us that Christ holds ultimate authority over all earthly rulers.
24. Deuteronomy 10:17 – “For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality and accepts no bribes.”
God is described as the greatest of all authorities, surpassing all earthly and heavenly powers. This verse reminds us that God’s power is unmatched and that His authority is just and impartial, governing all of creation.
25. 2 Timothy 1:7 – “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”
The Holy Spirit empowers believers with strength, courage, and love. This verse reminds us that the authority and power granted to Christians through the Holy Spirit are not for domination, but for exercising love and self-discipline. Power is to be wielded with compassion and self-control.
26. Psalm 45:6 – “Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever; a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom.”
This verse praises God’s eternal reign and His authority as a righteous ruler. The scepter symbolizes His authority, and His kingdom is one of justice. It reassures us that God’s rule is unending, and His authority is exercised in perfect righteousness.
27. 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.”
Jesus is exalted above all other powers and authorities. This passage affirms that every being will ultimately submit to Christ’s authority, acknowledging Him as Lord. It speaks to the supremacy of Jesus’ authority and His role as the ultimate ruler of the universe.
28. Hebrews 2:8 – “You put everything under his feet.” In putting everything under him, God left nothing that is not subject to him. Yet at present we do not see everything subject to him.”
This passage speaks of Jesus’ ultimate authority over all creation. Though everything has been subjected to Him, the full realization of His authority will be evident when He returns. It encourages us to trust in God’s sovereignty, even when circumstances do not yet reflect His dominion.
29. Luke 4:36 – “All the people were amazed and said to each other, ‘What words these are! With authority and power he gives orders to impure spirits and they come out!'”
Jesus demonstrates His authority by casting out demons with a simple command. His power is recognized as supernatural, and His authority over evil forces is unmatched. This verse emphasizes that Jesus’ authority extends over both the spiritual and physical realms.
30. 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.”
Christ’s authority is supreme over all other powers and dominions, both in this world and the next. This verse places Jesus above every earthly and spiritual authority, reinforcing His sovereignty. It affirms the eternal nature of His reign and encourages believers to live in light of His supreme authority.
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