The concept of "The Authority of the Charge" in the Bible refers to the divinely ordained responsibility and power given to individuals to fulfill specific roles or tasks within God's plan. This authority is often accompanied by a charge or command from God, which carries both the weight of divine mandate and the expectation of faithful execution.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the authority of the charge is frequently seen in the context of leadership and priesthood. For instance, Moses is given a charge by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. In Exodus 3:10 , God commands Moses, "So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring My people the Israelites out of Egypt." This charge is accompanied by the authority to perform signs and wonders, demonstrating God's power and presence with Moses.

Similarly, the Levitical priesthood is established with a specific charge and authority. In Numbers 18:1-7 , God outlines the responsibilities of Aaron and his sons, stating, "You and your sons and your father’s house with you shall bear the iniquity related to the sanctuary, and you and your sons with you shall bear the iniquity associated with your priesthood." This charge includes the authority to perform sacred duties and maintain the holiness of the sanctuary.

Prophetic Authority

Prophets in the Old Testament also receive divine charges, often accompanied by the authority to speak God's word to the people. Jeremiah, for example, is given a charge in Jeremiah 1:7 , where God says, "Do not say, ‘I am only a child,’ for to everyone I send you, you must go, and all that I command you, you must speak." The authority of the prophetic charge is rooted in the divine origin of the message, compelling the prophet to deliver it faithfully.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the authority of the charge is evident in the Great Commission given by Jesus to His disciples. In Matthew 28:18-20 , Jesus declares, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you." This charge is underpinned by the authority of Christ Himself, empowering the disciples to spread the Gospel.

The apostle Paul also speaks of the authority of his apostolic charge. In 2 Corinthians 10:8 , he writes, "For even if I boast somewhat excessively about the authority the Lord gave us for building you up rather than tearing you down, I will not be ashamed." Paul's authority is derived from his divine commission to preach and establish churches, emphasizing the constructive purpose of his charge.

Pastoral and Ecclesiastical Authority

The pastoral epistles further elaborate on the authority of the charge within the church. In 1 Timothy 4:11-13 , Paul instructs Timothy, "Command and teach these things. Let no one despise your youth, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity. Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, and to teaching." Timothy's charge includes the authority to lead and instruct the congregation, grounded in the sound doctrine he has received.

Conclusion

The authority of the charge in the Bible is a profound concept that underscores the responsibility and power bestowed by God upon individuals to fulfill His purposes. Whether in leadership, prophecy, apostolic mission, or pastoral care, this authority is always linked to a divine mandate, requiring obedience and faithfulness to God's commands.