Bible Authority (part 1): Introduction
The subject of authority, in general, is one that is looked upon with many different mindsets. That is to say some look at it as a necessity for the society in which they live their lives, while others see authority as an obstacle to get over in order to live their lives. In other words one will either, respect and uphold the authority that governs his life, or he will disrespect that same authority and rebel against it. Webster defines authority as “the power or right to command, act, etc.; power or influence resulting from knowledge, prestige, etc.; a person, writing, etc. cited to support an opinion; an expert.”
Authority in religion is looked upon in the same manner. Some will adhere to the authority of the Bible as the direction for their lives (Jeremiah 10:23), while others will go the way of of their own judgments, “In those days there was no king in Israel: every man did that which was right in his own eyes” (Judges 21:25). This is the reason for many divisions today and is the very foundation of the denominational arena of which the world practices her religion.
“Authority” as used in the New Testament is translated from the Greek word, “exousia,” and is defined as “…the ability or strength with which one is endued, which he either possesses or exercises” (Thayer 225). Divine authority, then, would be described as God’s Superiority, based on His Deity and Sovereignty, which gives Him the right to command and make final judgments. This is demonstrated in the following passages: