Word Information
Word: Exousia (Gk)
English: authority
exousia | έξουσία | authority
Source: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon of the New Testament
Author: Joseph H. Thayer
"The people were all so amazed that they asked each other, 'What is this? A new teaching—and with authority!' He even gives orders to impure spirits and they obey him.” Mark 1:27
Thayer’s Greek Lexicon
- the authority or right to exercise power, jurisdiction, or privilege.
- freedom, permission, or latitude to act or function
In the New Testament, “exousia” is used to convey the idea of authority, often referring to the jurisdiction and authority of God, Christ, governmental structures, and individuals in the biblical context.
Jesus’ teaching carried authority, even before He overcame death and received all authority in heaven and earth (Matthew 28:18). We have also been given authority to speak and act on His behalf on earth.
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.”
However, authority flows from submission.
Matthew 8:9
“For I also am a man under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”
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 in the context of the church is to be used to edify the believers.
2 Corinthians 10:8
“For even if I boast somewhat freely about the authority the Lord gave us for building you up rather than tearing you down, I will not be ashamed of it.”
Are you under authority? What do you use your authority for?
Sizzling Sunday: 26th November 2023
Sizzling Sunday 065
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