I don’t know about you but I value people who are authentic, real, vulnerable; those who speak the truth in love. It is apparent that the Holy Spirit has gotten hold of their lives and had his way.
But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Galatians 5:22-23)
Authentic people exhibit the fruit of the spirit and walk in authority, not because they wield power, but because they wield love.
The definition of authority is the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience.
Jesus exhibited a different kind of authority; an other-worldly authority where humility is the power source, and laying down one’s rights is the place of real obedience.
As citizens of another kingdom – God’s kingdom – we are called to walk in the authority of Christ, in an upside down version of how the world sees authority. Kingdom authority is summed up in the following:
In order to go up, we start down.
In the world we live in, people want to be in control; want authority, and value position, power, and success. In the kingdom of God, we let go of control and value the lowest place, trusting God.
When you are invited, take the lowest place, so that when your host comes he will say to you ‘friend, move up to a better place’. Then you will be honored in the presence of all the other guests (Luke 14:10)
Recently, I watched a young woman working at the cash registry of a local grocery store. She was handicapped, smiling, and serving. I listened as she gently spoke to her co-workers and as she served the people in line. It was apparent to me that she was highly respected and walked in authority. I could not help but think that she exhibits the humility of Christ.
In a few weeks, we will begin our study together on Isaiah. God’s people, the Israelites, had grown hard-hearted. They were following their own path, not relying on God and Isaiah was a voice in the wilderness crying out for them to change. He saw that their arrogance was their downfall and reminded them to turn back to God. Isaiah is a picture of true authority– a man walking in obedience to God. His assignment was rough. I would not have wanted to be the bearer of bad news. In our culture today, there seems to be an epidemic of people pleasing. There are too many roadblocks to being authentic.
Come join me this semester either at our two local live teachings or join our online streaming groups. Together, we will go on a journey of searching out true authenticity. Together we will be a stronger community of believers who follow the way of Christ.
