Jesus has given us access to supernatural power through the authority of His name. This delegated authority must be used to fulfill God’s purposes. It is not a magic lamp that can be used for our self-centered desires.
So what authority has been delegated to us?
- We have authority over evil spirits. Jesus said, “Look, I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy, and you can walk among snakes and scorpions and crush them. Nothing will injure you. But don’t rejoice because evil spirits obey you; rejoice because your names are registered in heaven.” (Luke 10:19,20, NLT)
- We have authority to demolish strongholds of evil deception. The apostle Paul explained, “The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:4,5, NIV)
- We have authority to bind the power of the devil and to set free that which he has made captive. Jesus stated, “And I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven. Whatever you forbid on earth will be forbidden in heaven, and whatever you permit on earth will be permitted in heaven.” (Matthew 16:19, NLT)
Jesus promised, “I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in Me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in My name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask Me for anything in My name, and I will do it.” (John 14:12-14, NIV)
You are empowered with the presence of the Holy Spirit!
- He baptized you into the body of Christ. His indwelling presence guarantees that you belong to God forever.
- He has equipped you with spiritual gifts for service.
- He assures you that you are now a child of God.
- He reveals truth and teaches you its meaning.
- He guides your thoughts, words and actions.
- He directs your steps in the fulfillment of your life mission.
- He comforts you in the midst of adversity. He warns you of impending danger.
- He points out sin and helps you resist your old sin nature.
- He facilitates effective prayer. He reproduces the character qualities of Christ within you. He creates an attitude of praise and worship within you.
- He develops submissiveness within you and promotes unity through you.
- He produces spiritual fruit through your service.
