Illegitimate power, within the context of the Bible, refers to authority or control that is exercised without divine sanction or in opposition to God's established order. This concept is explored through various narratives and teachings in Scripture, highlighting the consequences of usurping rightful authority and the divine response to such actions.

Old Testament Examples

1. The Rebellion of Korah (Numbers 16): Korah, along with Dathan, Abiram, and others, challenged the leadership of Moses and Aaron, questioning their God-given authority. This rebellion was seen as an act against the Lord Himself. The earth opened up and swallowed the rebels, demonstrating God's judgment against illegitimate power. Numbers 16:3 states, "They came together against Moses and Aaron and told them, 'You have gone too far! All the congregation is holy, every one of them, and the LORD is among them. Why then do you exalt yourselves above the assembly of the LORD?'"

2. Absalom's Revolt (2 Samuel 15-18): Absalom, the son of King David, sought to usurp the throne by winning the hearts of the people and declaring himself king. His actions were not sanctioned by God, and his rebellion ultimately led to his downfall and death. This narrative illustrates the futility and destructive nature of seeking power outside of God's will.

3. Jeroboam's Idolatry (1 Kings 12): Jeroboam, the first king of the northern kingdom of Israel, established golden calves for worship to prevent his people from going to Jerusalem. This act of illegitimate religious authority led Israel into sin and was condemned by God. 1 Kings 12:28-30 recounts, "After seeking advice, the king made two golden calves and said to the people, 'Going up to Jerusalem is too much for you. Here are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt.'"

New Testament Teachings

1. The Authority of Jesus (Matthew 28:18): Jesus Christ, after His resurrection, declared, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me" . This statement underscores the legitimacy of Christ's authority, contrasting with any earthly power that stands in opposition to His rule.

2. Submission to Governing Authorities (Romans 13:1-2): The Apostle Paul instructs believers to submit to governing authorities, as they are established by God. Romans 13:1-2 states, "Everyone must submit himself 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."

3. The Antichrist (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4): The New Testament warns of the coming of the Antichrist, who will exalt himself against God and claim illegitimate power. This figure represents the ultimate expression of rebellion against divine authority. 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4 warns, "Let no one deceive you in any way, for it will not come until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness—the son of destruction—is revealed. He will oppose and exalt himself above every so-called god or object of worship. So he will seat himself in the temple of God, proclaiming himself to be God."

Principles and Warnings

The Bible consistently warns against the pursuit of power that is not aligned with God's will. Illegitimate power often leads to chaos, destruction, and divine judgment. Believers are called to recognize and respect the authority established by God, whether in spiritual or secular realms, and to discern the difference between legitimate and illegitimate power. The narratives and teachings throughout Scripture serve as a reminder of the importance of aligning oneself with God's ordained order and authority.