The concept of the "Authority of His Christ" is deeply rooted in the New Testament and reflects the divine power and sovereignty bestowed upon Jesus Christ by God the Father. This authority is central to Christian theology, emphasizing Christ's role in salvation, judgment, and the establishment of God's kingdom.

Biblical Foundation

The authority of Christ is affirmed in several key passages throughout the New Testament. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus declares, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me" (Matthew 28:18). This statement, made after His resurrection, underscores the comprehensive nature of His authority, encompassing both the spiritual and physical realms.

In the Gospel of John, Jesus speaks of His divine commission, saying, "For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me" (John 6:38). This submission to the Father's will is a testament to the divine origin and purpose of His authority.

Messianic Authority

The authority of Christ is also messianic, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies concerning the coming of a Savior. Isaiah 9:6-7 speaks of a child born with the government upon His shoulders, whose reign will be characterized by justice and righteousness. The New Testament writers identify Jesus as this promised Messiah, whose authority is both kingly and priestly.

In Revelation, the authority of Christ is depicted in eschatological terms. Revelation 12:10 proclaims, "Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of His Christ." This passage highlights the ultimate victory of Christ over evil and the establishment of His eternal kingdom.

Authority in Teaching and Miracles

Throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus demonstrated His authority through teaching and miracles. The crowds were astonished at His teaching, "because He taught as one who had authority, and not as their scribes" (Matthew 7:29). His words carried divine weight, challenging existing religious norms and offering a new understanding of God's kingdom.

Miracles performed by Jesus further attested to His authority. He healed the sick, cast out demons, and even forgave sins, actions that signified His divine power. In Mark 2:10 , Jesus states, "But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins," before healing a paralytic, thereby demonstrating His authority over both physical and spiritual realms.

Authority in the Church

The authority of Christ extends to His Church, which He established as His body on earth. In Matthew 16:18-19 , Jesus tells Peter, "And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven." This passage indicates the authority given to the apostles and, by extension, to the Church, to carry out Christ's mission.

The apostle Paul further elaborates on this in Ephesians 1:22-23 , stating, "And God put everything under His feet and made Him head over everything for the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all." The Church, therefore, operates under the authority of Christ, empowered to preach the Gospel and administer the sacraments.

Authority in Judgment

Finally, the authority of Christ encompasses His role as judge. In John 5:22-23 , Jesus declares, "Furthermore, the Father judges no one, but has assigned all judgment to the Son, so that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father." This authority to judge is a critical aspect of Christ's divine prerogative, affirming His role in the final judgment and the consummation of God's redemptive plan.

The authority of His Christ is a multifaceted doctrine that underscores the divine power, mission, and ultimate victory of Jesus Christ. It is foundational to understanding His role in the divine economy and His ongoing work in the world through the Church.