The concept of the authority of God's command is a central theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the divine power and sovereignty of God over creation, humanity, and the moral order. This authority is evident from the very beginning of Scripture and is consistently affirmed through the narratives, laws, prophecies, and teachings found within the biblical text.

Creation and Sovereignty

The authority of God's command is first demonstrated in the creation account. In Genesis 1, God speaks the universe into existence, illustrating His supreme power and authority. "And God said, 'Let there be light,' and there was light" (Genesis 1:3). This creative command underscores God's ultimate authority over all that exists, as He alone has the power to bring forth life and order from nothingness.

The Law and Covenant

God's authority is further manifested in the giving of the Law to Israel. The Ten Commandments, delivered to Moses on Mount Sinai, are a direct expression of God's will and authority over His chosen people. Exodus 20:1-2 states, "And God spoke all these words: 'I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.'" The commandments that follow are not merely suggestions but divine imperatives that establish a covenantal relationship between God and Israel, demanding obedience and reverence.

Prophetic Authority

Throughout the Old Testament, prophets serve as God's messengers, delivering His commands and judgments to the people. The authority of their message is rooted in their divine commission. For instance, in Jeremiah 1:9, God assures the prophet, "Behold, I have put My words in your mouth." This divine endorsement underscores the authority of the prophetic word as an extension of God's own command.

Jesus Christ and Divine Authority

In the New Testament, the authority of God's command is embodied in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus speaks with divine authority, as seen in His teachings and miracles. In Matthew 7:29, it is noted that Jesus "taught as one who had authority, and not as their scribes." His authority is further affirmed in the Great Commission, where He declares, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me" (Matthew 28:18). This statement encapsulates the comprehensive scope of Christ's authority, which is derived from His divine nature and mission.

Apostolic Authority

The apostles, as witnesses to the resurrection and recipients of the Holy Spirit, are entrusted with the authority to teach and establish the early Church. In Acts 1:8, Jesus promises, "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 apostolic authority is foundational for the spread of the Gospel and the establishment of Christian doctrine.

Scriptural Authority

The Bible itself, as the written Word of God, carries divine authority. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 affirms, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work." The authority of Scripture is rooted in its divine inspiration, serving as the ultimate guide for faith and practice.

Obedience and Submission

The authority of God's command demands a response of obedience and submission from believers. James 4:7 exhorts, "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." This call to submission is a recognition of God's rightful authority over every aspect of life, requiring believers to align their will with His divine purposes.

Judgment and Accountability

Finally, the authority of God's command is linked to divine judgment and accountability. Romans 14:12 reminds us, "So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God." The authority of God's command ensures that all humanity is accountable to Him, and His righteous judgments will be executed according to His sovereign will.