Authority

In the biblical context, authority refers to the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience. It is a central theme throughout Scripture, reflecting both divine and human dimensions.

1. Divine Authority: God is the ultimate source of all authority. His authority is absolute, eternal, and unchallengeable. In Genesis 1:1, the Bible begins with God's sovereign act of creation, establishing His authority over the universe: "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." God's authority is further emphasized in passages like Psalm 115:3, "Our God is in heaven; He does as He pleases."

2. Christ's Authority: Jesus Christ, as the Son of God, possesses divine authority. In Matthew 28:18, Jesus declares, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me." This authority is evident in His teachings, miracles, and His power over sin and death. The Gospel of John records Jesus' authority over life and judgment: "For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so also the Son gives life to whom He wishes" (John 5:21).

3. Scriptural Authority: The Bible, as the inspired Word of God, carries divine authority. 2 Timothy 3:16 states, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness." Believers are called to submit to the authority of Scripture in all matters of faith and practice.

4. Human Authority: God delegates authority to human institutions, such as governments, the church, and the family. 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." This passage underscores the divine origin of human authority and the believer's responsibility to respect and obey it, provided it does not conflict with God's commands.

Sovereignty

Sovereignty refers to God's supreme power and authority over all creation. It encompasses His control, governance, and providential care of the universe.

1. God's Sovereign Rule: God's sovereignty is a foundational doctrine in Scripture. He is depicted as the King of kings and Lord of lords, exercising dominion over all things. In Isaiah 46:9-10, God declares, "I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me, declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all My purpose.'"

2. Providence and Sovereignty: God's sovereignty is intricately linked to His providence, the means by which He sustains and governs the world. In Matthew 10:29-31, Jesus illustrates God's providential care: "Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows."

3. Human Responsibility and Divine Sovereignty: While God is sovereign, human beings are responsible for their actions. This tension is evident in passages like Philippians 2:12-13, "Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence but now even more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good pleasure."

4. Sovereignty in Salvation: God's sovereignty extends to the realm of salvation. Ephesians 1:4-5 speaks of God's sovereign choice: "For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence. In love He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will."

In summary, authority and sovereignty are interwoven themes in the Bible, reflecting God's ultimate control and rightful rule over all creation, while also establishing the framework for human authority and responsibility.