30 Powerful bible verses about the authority we have (Full Commentary)

Pastor David

bible study for you

Today we will talk about bible verses about the authority we have. Many Christians do not know what this means. Understanding our authority as believers can transform how we live and engage in the world around us. We are not mere spectators in our faith; instead, we are given power and authority through Christ to act, speak, and impact the lives of others. This authority isn’t just about control or dominance, but about responsibility and service. As we read through these verses, let’s be open to the revelation of our position in Christ and how we can use that authority to reflect His love and truth to others.

Bible Verses About the Authority We Have

God’s Sovereignty Over All

When we consider the authority we have, we often need to remind ourselves that ultimately, all authority comes from God. This sovereign power indicates that God has dominion over everything. As followers of Christ, we can confidently proclaim His Word, knowing that His authority guides us in our actions. It reassures us that we aren’t alone; God goes before us and stands beside us. We should always remember that our authority is under His mighty hand.

Matthew 28:18

“Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.'” – Matthew 28:18

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.” – Romans 13:1

Psalm 103:19

“The LORD has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all.” – Psalm 103:19

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.” – Colossians 1:16

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.'” – John 19:11

Our Identity in Christ

Understanding that we have authority begins with knowing who we are in Christ. We are children of the Most High God, and this identity shapes our actions and decisions. By realizing our worth and position in God’s family, we can step boldly into our God-given authority. Our identity in Christ frees us from fear and transforms our perspective on life, making us agents of His love and truth.

2 Corinthians 5:17

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” – 2 Corinthians 5:17

Galatians 3:26-27

“So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.” – Galatians 3:26-27

1 Peter 2:9

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” – 1 Peter 2:9

Ephesians 2:6

“And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus.” – Ephesians 2:6

Romans 8:17

“Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.” – Romans 8:17

The Power of Our Words

As Christians, we have the authority to speak life into situations. Our words are powerful; they can either uplift or tear down. When we utilize our authority in Christ, we can proclaim healing, peace, and hope. The Bible teaches us that we will be held accountable for our words, and thus, we should use them wisely. Let’s choose to speak words of faith over our lives and the lives of others.

Proverbs 18:21

“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” – Proverbs 18:21

Mark 11:23

“Truly I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them.” – Mark 11:23

Ephesians 4:29

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” – Ephesians 4:29

James 3:10

“Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.” – James 3:10

Isaiah 54:17

“No weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and this is their vindication from me,” declares the LORD.

Prayer as a Tool of Authority

Prayer is a vital aspect of how we exercise our authority in Christ. It’s our direct connection to God, where we can seek His guidance, strength, and wisdom. Through prayer, we engage in spiritual battles and claim the authority given to us. Let us remember that the communication with our heavenly Father empowers us to utilize our God-given authority effectively.

James 5:16

“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” – James 5:16

Philippians 4:6-7

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7

Matthew 18:19-20

“Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” – Matthew 18:19-20

1 John 5:14

“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.” – 1 John 5:14

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.” – Luke 10:19

Scripture as Our Weapon

The Word of God is another powerful tool we have at our disposal. When we speak scripture over our lives or situations, we are using the authority God has granted us. It’s essential to know His Word so we can wield it effectively against the lies of the enemy. Let’s immerse ourselves in the Scriptures and allow them to empower us in our daily lives.

Ephesians 6:17

“Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” – Ephesians 6:17

Hebrews 4:12

“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” – Hebrews 4:12

2 Timothy 3:16-17

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” – 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Joshua 1:8

“Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.” – Joshua 1:8

Psalms 119:105

“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” – Psalms 119:105

Stepping Out in Faith

Exercising our authority often requires us to step out in faith. It involves trusting in God’s promises and taking action based on them. When we step out, we are affirming our belief in God’s word and His power to work through us. Let’s embrace the challenges that come our way, knowing that our authority is backed by the faithfulness of God.

Hebrews 11:1

“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” – Hebrews 11:1

Mark 9:23

“‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.” – Mark 9:23

Matthew 17:20

“He replied, ‘Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, “Move from here to there,” and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.'” – Matthew 17:20

Romans 4:20-21

“Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised.” – Romans 4:20-21

Isaiah 41:10

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10

Serving Others with Authority

Our authority isn’t for self-serving but instead for serving others. Jesus demonstrated the ultimate act of servant leadership, and as His followers, we are called to do the same. When we exercise our authority, we should do so with humility and grace, seeking to uplift and help those around us. Let’s remember that true authority is found in service.

Matthew 20:26-28

“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.” – Matthew 20:26-28

Philippians 2:3-4

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” – Philippians 2:3-4

1 Peter 4:10

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” – 1 Peter 4:10

Luke 22:26

“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.” – Luke 22:26

Galatians 5:13

“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” – Galatians 5:13

Living with Confidence

Knowing our authority in Christ gives us confidence as we face various challenges. We can navigate the storms of life, secure in the knowledge that we are equipped and empowered to handle whatever comes our way. With this authority, we can inspire confidence in others as they see us walk in faith and boldness. Let’s embrace this confidence and encourage others to do the same.

2 Timothy 1:7

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.” – 2 Timothy 1:7

1 John 4:4

“You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” – 1 John 4:4

Psalms 27:1

“The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?” – Psalms 27:1

Isaiah 54:14

“In righteousness you will be established: Tyranny will be far from you; you will have nothing to fear. Terror will be far removed; it will not come near you.” – Isaiah 54:14

Joshua 1:9

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9

Faithful in Our Calling

Lastly, walking in authority means being faithful to our calling. God has a specific purpose for each of us, and our authority helps us fulfill that mission. As we serve Him faithfully, we utilize the authority given to us to impact the world, making disciples, sharing love, and manifesting His goodness. Let’s commit to being faithful and diligent in our calling!

1 Corinthians 15:58

“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” – 1 Corinthians 15:58

2 Timothy 4:5

“But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.” – 2 Timothy 4:5

Colossians 3:23-24

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” – Colossians 3:23-24

1 Peter 5:2

“Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve.” – 1 Peter 5:2

Matthew 25:21

“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!'” – Matthew 25:21

Final Thoughts

In understanding the authority we have as believers, we can step confidently into our lives, empowered by God’s Word and His promises. Acknowledging that all authority comes from God helps us recognize our identity in Christ and the power of our words. Prayer becomes our lifeline, and Scripture our weapon against the challenges we face. By serving others and living with confidence, we embody the love of Christ. As we remain faithful in our calling, we can influence the world around us for His glory. Let’s hold onto our authority, exercising it with grace and humility, knowing that we are called to make a difference.

Remember that we are not alone in this journey. God is with us every step of the way. We can encourage and uplift one another as we all grow in this understanding together. May we walk boldly in the authority given to us and shine brightly as examples of His love and truth!

Further Reading

30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)

30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)

30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)

30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)

4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4

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