Sunday, May 29
The purpose of authority
Scripture: 1 Kings 3-4, Psalm 63, 2 Corinthians 13
2 Corinthians 13:10 This is why I write these things when I am absent, that when I come I may not have to be harsh in my use of authority—the authority the Lord gave me for building you up, not for tearing you down.
Observation
This letter is a study on the use of authority to build up, not tear down. Paul writes to correct them, and yet does it with kindness and gentleness. He is not harsh.
Paul understood Jesus’ teaching on authority (see Mark 10:35-45) that it is to be used to serve others for their good, never lord it over others.
God gives authority to build others up, not tear them down.
Application
I’m on my way to our denominational convention where we’ll be dealing with cases of leadership abuse. Sadly, it will be the big topic. I say sadly, not because it shouldn’t be addressed—it should. Abuses of power must be corrected. It’s sad because followers of Jesus should never abuse power. Jesus made it clear that we are given authority to serve, to help, to heal—never to take advantage or for selfish gain.
Every leader, every person with a measure of authority must understand that authority exists not to give them rights and power, but to serve others.
Build up, don’t tear down.
Prayer: Lord, help our leaders and denomination process this well next week. More importantly, moving forward help all our leaders understand that their authority is a gift from God to build others up, not tear them down.