Definition and Distinction
In biblical terms, "authority" and "power" are closely related yet distinct concepts. Authority refers to the legitimate right to command or act, while power is the ability or capacity to perform or enforce actions. Both concepts are integral to understanding God's nature, His relationship with creation, and the roles of individuals within the biblical narrative.

Divine Authority and Power
God is the ultimate source of all authority and power. His authority is inherent, as He is the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. In Genesis 1:1, we see God's authority in creation: "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." His power is demonstrated throughout Scripture, such as in Psalm 147:5, "Great is our Lord and mighty in power; His understanding has no limit."

God's authority is also evident in His sovereignty over nations and rulers. Proverbs 21:1 states, "The king’s heart is a waterway in the hand of the LORD; He directs it where He pleases." This illustrates that earthly authority is subject to divine will.

Jesus Christ: Authority and Power
Jesus Christ embodies divine authority and power. In Matthew 28:18, Jesus declares, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me." This statement underscores His divine authority, which is further demonstrated through His teachings, miracles, and ultimately, His resurrection.

The Gospels frequently highlight Jesus' authority over nature, sickness, and spiritual realms. For instance, in Mark 4:39, Jesus calms the storm, showcasing His power over creation: "Then He got up and rebuked the wind and the sea, 'Silence! Be still!' And the wind died down, and it was perfectly calm."

Authority and Power in the Church
The New Testament outlines the structure of authority within the Church. Christ is the head of the Church, as stated in Ephesians 1:22, "And God put everything under His feet and made Him head over everything for the church." Apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers are given authority to build up the body of Christ (Ephesians 4:11-12).

Church leaders are called to exercise their authority with humility and service, following Christ's example. In 1 Peter 5:2-3, elders are instructed, "Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you, watching over them—not out of compulsion, but because it is God’s will; not out of greed, but out of eagerness; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock."

Believers and Authority
Believers are called to submit to God's authority and the authorities He has established. Romans 13:1-2 instructs, "Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God. Consequently, whoever resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves."

However, when human authority conflicts with God's commands, believers must obey God rather than men, as demonstrated by the apostles in Acts 5:29, "But Peter and the other apostles replied, 'We must obey God rather than men.'"

Spiritual Authority and Power
Believers are endowed with spiritual authority and power through the Holy Spirit. Jesus promised His disciples in Acts 1:8, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

This spiritual authority enables believers to overcome sin, resist the devil, and fulfill the Great Commission. Ephesians 6:10-11 encourages believers to "be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes."

Conclusion
The concepts of authority and power are foundational to understanding the biblical worldview. They reveal God's sovereign rule, Christ's redemptive work, and the believer's role in God's kingdom. Through submission to divine authority and reliance on spiritual power, believers are equipped to live out their faith in a world that often challenges these principles.