A Message with Authority

January 28

(Luke 4:32 NIV) “They were amazed at his teaching, because his message had authority.”

(John 17:1-5 NIV) “After Jesus said this, he looked toward heaven and prayed: "Father, the time has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you. {2} For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him. {3} Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent. {4} I have brought you glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do. {5} And now, Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the world began.”

(Matthew 28:16-20 NIV) “Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. {17} When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. {18} Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. {19} Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, {20} and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.””

Sometimes a message can be good, but the one speaking it has no authority. Words can have great impact, or words can fall to the ground, never to be remembered. The words of Jesus always cut to the heart. People either hated Him or were moved to follow Him. Few who heard Him remained neutral. He spoke with authority that came from His Father in heaven. He spoke the word of God. Believers should remember this today. Without God’s word, our message will not fly. Without the Holy Spirit, our witness has no wings. But when God’s word is spoken with power and authority, we will see both conversion and resistance. Some will be inspired to follow Jesus; others will hate us. Speaking with authority will bring both converts and enemies. When you speak the gospel with love, you speak with authority given by Christ. Declare it fearlessly and leave the results up to God. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day