Authority: April 2026
Table of Contents
Authority
The Apostle begins his exhortations (in Eph. 6) with regard to relationships by giving the general precept: “Submit yourselves one to another.” This renders order easy, even when the order of institutions and of authority may fail. Submission, moral obedience, can never in principle be wanting to the true Christian. It is the starting point of his whole life. He is sanctified unto the obedience of Christ (1 Peter 1:2).
It is beautiful to see the way in which divine doctrine enters into the details of life, and throws the fragrance of its perfection into every duty and every relationship; how it acknowledges existing things, as far as they can be owned and directed by its principles, but exalts and enhances the value of everything according to the perfection of those principles; by touching not the relationships but the man’s heart who walks in them; taking the moral side, and that of submission, in love and in the exercise of authority which the divine doctrine can regulate, bringing in the grace which governs the use of the authority of God.
J. N. Darby
Authority and Power
If ever there was a moment in the history of the professing church in which it is most important for people to have divine authority for their path and divine power to pursue it, this is the moment. There are so many conflicting opinions, so many jarring voices, so many opposing schools, so many contending parties, that we are in danger at all points of losing our balance and being carried we know not whither. We find the very best of men ranged on opposite sides of the same question; men who, as far as we can judge, seem to have a single eye to the glory of Christ, and to take the Word of God as their sole authority in all things.
What then is a simple soul to do? How is one to get on in the face of all this? Is there no peaceful haven in which to anchor one’s tiny vessel away from the wild tossing of the stormy ocean of human opinion? Yes, blessed be God, there is, and the reader may know the deep blessedness of casting anchor there this very moment. It is the sweet privilege of the very simplest child of God to have divine authority for his path and divine power to pursue it.
The Divine Word – The Divine Presence
What is it? Where is it? The authority is found in the divine Word; the power is found in the divine Presence. Thus it is, and all may know it—ought to know it, for the stability of their path and the joy of their heart.
In contemplating the present condition of professing Christians generally, one is struck with this very painful fact, that so few are prepared to face Scripture on all points and on all matters, personal, domestic, commercial, and ecclesiastical. If the question of the soul’s salvation is settled, then people often consider themselves at liberty to break away from the sacred domain of Scripture, and launch forth upon the tossing sea of human opinion and human will, where each one may think for himself, choose for himself, and act for himself.
Human Opinion
Now nothing is more certain than this, that where it is merely a question of human opinion, human will, or human judgment, there is not a shadow of authority, nor a particle of power. No human opinion has any authority over the conscience, nor can it impart any power to the soul. It has neither authority nor power for me. I must have God’s Word and God’s presence; else I cannot carry on. If anything comes between my conscience and the Word of God, I know not where I am, what to do, or whither to turn. And if anything, no matter what, comes in between my heart and the presence of God, I am perfectly powerless. The word of the Lord is my only directory; His dwelling in me and with me, my only power. “Have I not commanded thee?” “Lo, I am with you.”
But, it may be that you ask, Is it really true that the Word of God contains ample guidance for all the details of life? Does it direct me in my personal path, in my domestic relationships, in my commercial position, in my religious associations and opinions?
Most assuredly it does. The Word of God furnishes you thoroughly to all good works; any work for which it does not furnish you is not good, but bad. Let us bow down to its holy authority in all things. Let us humbly and reverently yield ourselves to its heavenly guidance. Let us give up every habit, every practice, every association for which we have not the direct authority of God’s Word, and in which we cannot enjoy the sense of His presence.
Submission
This is a point of the very gravest importance. I stress the vast importance of absolute and complete submission to the authority of Scripture in all things. We would say, and with all emphasis, all things.
One of our greatest practical difficulties in dealing with souls arises from the fact that they do not seem to have any idea of submitting in all things to Scripture. They will not face the Word of God, nor consent to be taught exclusively from its sacred pages. Creeds and confessions, religious forms, the commandments, the doctrines, and the traditions of men — these things will be heard and yielded to. Our own will, our own judgment, our own views of things will be allowed to bear sway.
We put emphasis on expediency, position, reputation, personal influence, the opinion of friends, the thoughts and example of good and great men, the fear of grieving or giving offense to those we love and esteem and with whom we may have been long associated in our religious life and service. We dread being thought of as presumptuous, and shrink from the appearance of judging or condemning many at whose feet we would willingly sit. All these things operate and exert a most damaging influence upon the soul, and hinder full surrender of ourselves to the paramount authority of God’s Word.
May the Lord graciously stir up our hearts in reference to this important subject! May He lead us, by His Holy Spirit, to see the true place and the real value and power of His Word. May that Word be set up in our souls as the one all-sufficient rule, so that everything may be utterly rejected that is not based upon its authority. Then we may expect to make progress. Then shall our path be as the path of the just, like a shining light that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. May we never rest satisfied until, in reference to all our habits, all our ways, all our associations, our religious position and service, all we do and all we do not do; where we go and where we do not go, we can truly say we have the sanction of God’s Word and the light of His presence. Here, and here alone, lies the deep and precious secret of AUTHORITY and POWER.
C. H. Mackintosh
Authority - Service - Power
The first requisite for service is the commission to serve. The servant’s most important essentials are his credentials. The man of chief rank and ability, who represents his country as ambassador, or the humblest gatekeeper at a palace, each has authority committed to him for his work. The authority given to servants places each of them in his position. When the Lord was leaving this earth He said, “The Son of Man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants” (Mark 13:34). Authority, therefore, was that which the Lord first committed to His servants. The servant is never in authority beyond the limits of his commission. In this life it is not for a general to assume the judgeship, or for the policeman to attend the fireman’s duty — each servant of his country has authority in his own sphere, not in that of others. God commissioned Saul to be king over Israel; Saul assumed the priest’s service, offered sacrifices, and lost his crown (1 Sam. 13:12-14). To Moses were given the designs of the tabernacle; to Bezaleel and Aholiab its construction (Ex. 31). Paul planted; Apollos watered. The Lord has given us authority to do the work He prescribes for us in His Name, not to do the work of others.
God first appoints us for a service, and then enables us to serve. God called Moses, and commissioned him, saying, “I will send thee” (Ex. 3:10). The commission of Jehovah was authority for Moses. But Moses looked for power in himself (Ex. 4:10) to carry out his service, and, not finding it, sought to avoid executing his service. Then “the anger of the Lord was kindled against Moses” (Ex. 4:14). How often, like Moses, do we look for power in ourselves to fulfill that service to which we are appointed! Our first question should be, “Am I sent”? David went against Goliath of Gath, as Jehovah’s servant; Saul looked at David’s own power, and endeavored to make him go to war in his armor. But David took with him Jehovah’s name, and by a sling and a stone the giant fell. David went out in faith; the result was in Jehovah’s hand — victory.
Christ’s Authority – Human Authority
Christ’s servants have His authority, and no Christian can possess greater authority. Human authority is either that of him who speaks or of those who sent him; it is only as great as man. Its boundaries are time, and its limits the reach of the arm of flesh. We do not have authority over our fellow servants. Interference is not authority. “Who art thou that judgest another man’s servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth” (Rom. 14:4). Let Christ’s servants lay to heart, that the first thing the Lord gave to His servants was authority, and they will be emboldened in their service. Who shall stand against their Master, and what encourages a man more in his work for his Lord than this happy knowledge — my Master sent me!
Our gracious Lord when on earth was the Servant, and as such He had authority given Him of His Father. He spoke as one having authority, not as the scribes (Mark 1:22). He spoke of God, and from God; those who were from the schools of men, spoke of their books and from their wisdom. The people were astonished at His doctrine, and, in measure, it is so even now with the servants of Christ, who are like their Lord. Those who speak direct at His bidding, as from Himself, command the souls of men. They may be laughed at, or envied, but their doctrine is not as the scribes. What greater honor, servant of Christ, can you have on earth than the authority your Master in heaven has given to you? The great men of this world seek service under kings; you are the servant of the Lord of all. Go on in your service, serving Him. Let no power on earth take you from your path of duty.
Faithful Words for Young and Old. Vol. 14
Sent Ones
“As My Father hath sent Me, even so send I you” (John 20:21).
These words of our adorable Lord are full of encouragement for all His disciples in all ages. They speak, first, of definite authority. Christ, we would say it with all reverence, was “a man under authority” (Matt. 8:9). Time after time He affirmed that the words which He uttered had been given to Him of His Father to speak, and the works which He did had been given to Him of His Father to do. When men found fault either with His words or actions He threw the responsibility, as it were, upon the One who had sent Him. Likewise each one of us is “a man under authority.” And good will it be for us if, when our words or deeds are found fault with, we are able rightly to throw the responsibility on the Master who sent us, and say in truth, “You are not quarreling with me, but with Christ, for I am doing what He would have me do.”
Again, although the Lord Jesus was sent by the Father, He came willingly. He could say, “I delight to do Thy will, O My God” (Psa. 40:8). And the great Apostle to the Gentiles in his turn could say, “The love of Christ constraineth us” (2 Cor. 5:14), though a deep sense of his responsibility was ever present with Him. “Necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel” (1 Cor. 9:16). God loves a cheerful giver. Our service should be an offering, not a tax.
Sent Into the World But Not of It
Our Lord, although sent into the world, was not of it, and never became of it. “Your time is always ready,” He said to His brethren. Yes, they were of the world, and being in their own element, they could move about freely. But His time was not always ready. He had to wait for the set time of Him who sent Him. And so it is with those sent by the Lord Jesus. They also are not of the world. They are not to govern their lives by the world’s spirit and maxims and points of view. They have to obey their marching orders given by their Lord in heaven. But just as Christ enjoyed the peace of the Father in the midst of the world’s unrest and opposition, so He bequeathed His own peace to those who sought to represent Him in the same scene of enmity to God and hostility to His ways.
Lastly, our blessed Lord could say, “I have glorified Thee on the earth; I have finished the work which Thou gavest Me to do” (John 17:4). His meat was to do the will of Him who sent Him. And in this respect, too, the servant is to be as his Lord. We are to follow His steps by bearing fruit to God. We have no business in life but to do the will of Him who sent us. The one and only end of our lives is to glorify God.
If the text with which we started grips the life, what abundant moral results will it produce! It will bring about submission. We are not our own masters. We are to obey the commands of the One who sent us. A sent servant goes about his master’s business, not his own. If he uses his master’s time or money for his own ends, he is guilty of embezzlement. How dare we squander time and talents in self-seeking if the Lord of glory has sent us into the world to serve Him?
His Power Will Sustain Us
If Christ has sent us, then His almighty power is at our back while we are acting within His instructions. Wonderful thought! He who sends us will not leave us in the lurch. We go not to battle on our own charges or in our own strength. O, to trust and go forward, even when we feel nothing but weakness! There is almighty power at the back of the word that bids us stretch out the paralyzed hand. If we believe, we shall commit ourselves to action, and thus we shall prove the power of His enabling.
It has been said that Moses was the most disinterested of men. Why? Because he had no other thought than to do the will of Him who had sent him. If we can say, “I am doing my Lord’s will,” what matters it if we are kept in a humble, obscure sphere? We shall not envy the prominent brother. A dewdrop accomplishes the will of God as effectually as a thunderstorm. The little violet glorifies its Maker as much as the tall sunflower. A notable saint of the eighteenth century said that if two angels were sent by God, one to rule a kingdom and the other to sweep the street, neither would find fault with his appointed work. The one who swept the street would do his business as cheerfully and zealously as the one who ruled the kingdom.
“I would not have the restless will
That hurries to and fro,
Seeking for some great thing to do
Or secret thing to know.”
The Will of Him Who Sent Us
It gives peace of mind and deep satisfaction of soul to realize that we are doing the will of Him who sent us. We are prone to dictate to the Almighty what we are to do, and we may have to learn by experience what it is to have a broken will — and perhaps a broken heart — before we are ready to submit to our Lord’s directions as to our services, and to acknowledge that the end of life had been fulfilled if we accomplish His will.
The Lord does not wish the weakest or most obscure of His own to be so much flotsam or jetsam on the ocean of life. For the least of us “nobodies” He has a purpose. Only a few can be like the giant liners that forge their way across the Atlantic, but every one of us can resemble the small but busy craft that help to carry on the world’s commerce. Our verse (John 20:21) will prevent us from us from wasting our energies in busy idleness, or sinking in the apathy of indifference because we have small gifts and no position. Those who have the smallest talents are in most danger of settling down in a state of lethargy, but the words, “The Lord has sent me into the world” sound like a trumpet-blast, wakening us to renewed activity and giving force and driving power to the life. If we are inclined to forget that our labor is not in vain in the Lord, and, looking at our own weakness and apparent lack of success, are ready to cry almost in despair, may we summon up fresh courage by asking ourselves the vital question, “Who sent me?”
Young Christian, Vol. 10
The Representation of Authority
When the Lord Jesus was asked by the chief priests and elders of the people, “By what authority doest thou these things”? (Matt. 21:23), He did nothing more to enforce His power. He referred them to the case of the baptism of John, asking them if it was from heaven or not. The Lord used no assertive power to impose His authority. The real problem with them was not a question of His authority. There was ample witness to this in His ministry, as many were amazed how with authority He had cast out unclean spirits (see Mark 1:22,27). The real problem was their unwillingness to accept the witness before them, and His responsive question without giving further proof of authority brought this to their attention.
Benefactors
In Luke the Lord speaks to the disciples about how the Gentiles exercise lordship, warning them not to become benefactors through the use of their authority. He said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve” (vss. 25-26). There is a great difference in how the Lord exercises authority and how the heart of man does it.
These examples of not using authority for our own advantage should speak to us. There is a propensity to hastily give demonstrations of our position of authority (as a parent or one responsible in the assembly) through show of force. It can begin with such a small thing as speaking loudly or defensively. Often times when we are overbearing, instead of upholding our position it manifests weakness and does not uphold the character of God. Certainly there is a time to assert one’s place of authority in the home or in the assembly; as it says in Titus 2:15, “These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority.” But let us be on the guard lest our position be the focus rather than upholding the representation of God.
The Power of Elijah
There is a right time to give demonstration of power as was the case of Elijah when he called down fire from heaven as a witness to Israel of the Lord God of Israel. On that occasion fire came down and consumed the sacrifice on the altar (1 Kings 18). Then Elijah slew all the prophets of Baal. Afterward when Jezebel sought to kill him, Elijah became greatly angry and was discouraged. So he fled to Mt. Horeb. Elijah’s reaction of fleeing seems to be because he had been rejected even though he had made a strong demonstration of power to announce the true God. It is hard to be identified with failure in testimony even when it is for what is right. But the Lord, on the other hand, had sent him to do the great demonstration of power to prove that Israel would not turn back to Him. It was time to end the imposition of law. The Lord in His purposes had another plan of grace through the prophet Elisha and his ministry of grace.
On another occasion Elijah called fire down from heaven twice to consume the captain and his fifty (2 Kings 1). And he would have done it a third time had not the captain pleaded for his life. The disciples of the Lord Jesus referred to that incident when the Samaritans rejected the testimony of Jesus. Power in the hands of man needs to be subject to God who gives it. The Lord answered them, “Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. For the Son of Man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them” (Luke 9:55-56). It was not the time for Him to cut off those who did not believe. The Lord Jesus would sooner lay down his life for those that are lost. Only after doing that would He exercise judgment for the unbelief of those who reject Him. That day is still pending.
The Apostle Paul
We turn now to the case of the Apostle Paul and how he used the power and authority given to him as an apostle sent from the Lord in heaven. In writing to the Corinthians who questioned his apostleship he said, “Am I not an apostle? am I not free? have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord? are not ye my work in the Lord? If I be not an apostle unto others, yet doubtless I am to you: for the seal of mine apostleship are ye in the Lord. . . Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ” (1 Cor. 9:1-2,12). Here the apostle faithfully upholds the place of authority the Lord Jesus had given him and the other apostles. Then in verse 18 he continues, “What is my reward then? Verily that, When I preach the gospel, I may make the gospel of Christ without charge, that I abuse not my power in the gospel.” Certainly we see the spirit of Christ represented to us in how he used the authority given to him without demanding from them better respect and treatment personally. The lack of recognition from them did not stop him from being faithful.
Then again in 2 Corinthians 10 where the apostle beseeches them by the “meekness and gentleness of Christ”; there were some who took his manner with them as weakness and resisted him as one walking merely in a human fleshly course. The apostle was very bold toward them, warning them, “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: . . . Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; and having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled” (2 Cor. 10:3-6). This was a spiritual warfare. He was applying these words to himself as well as them. Then the apostle, after speaking so boldly, clarifies that this action was in no way abusive towards them, “For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed” (vs. 8). He is so careful not to over extend his authority to the point of its being destructive. His motive in speaking boldly was done in love for their edification.
Lastly, in the apostle’s final warning to the Corinthians, he writes, “This is the third time I am coming to you. In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established. I told you before, and foretell you, as if I were present, the second time; and being absent now I write to them which heretofore have sinned, and to all other, that, if I come again, I will not spare” (2 Cor. 13:1-2). The Corinthians considered him weak but he tells them that when he comes he will be bold and will not spare. The issue for Paul was not mere appearance, neither of weakness or power; he cared not to appear weak before them, for he lived by the power of God and would carry out the necessary discipline when he visited them. In the mean while to spare them he writes, “On this account I write these things being absent, that being present I may not use severity according to the authority which the Lord has given me for building up, and not for overthrowing” (vs. 10 JND). He guarded himself from being too severe. The motive was for their good, not their overthrowing. This example of how the apostle used his authority clearly demonstrates a right spirit and use of authority. Power and authority carried out correctly justifies God’s character without the elevation of human pretentions.
D. C. Buchanan
Authority Abused
When we consider submission to authority, we must also consider the abuse of authority. As we have noted in other articles in this issue of The Christian, all authority ultimately comes from God. God alone has supreme authority, and all authority in this world is derived. It is most important for those in positions of power to recognize God’s supreme authority, and understand that they are accountable to God for the way they use their authority. Unhappily there have been horrible abuses of power in the history of this world, and some of them are recorded in the Word of God.
In particular, I would like to call attention to the incident in 1 Kings 21, concerning Ahab and Naboth. I will not record the entire story here, but will point out that the problem started when King Ahab wanted the vineyard of Naboth for “a garden of herbs.” When Naboth refused to sell his vineyard to Ahab, on the grounds that it was the inheritance of his fathers, Ahab went home very upset, went to bed, and refused to eat.
When his wicked wife Jezebel found out the cause of all this, she assured her husband that she would get the vineyard for him. She wrote letters to the elders of the city, telling them to set up a court, to accuse Naboth of blasphemy with false witnesses, and then to take him out and stone him. It is recorded that “the men of his city ... did as Jezebel had sent unto them ... Then they sent to Jezebel, saying, Naboth is stoned, and is dead” (1 Kings 21:11,14). Then Ahab calmly went down and took possession of Naboth’s vineyard.
The Double Payback
Our hearts recoil in horror at such an abuse of power, as to accuse an innocent man falsely, then take him out and stone him. However there are two issues that are brought out here concerning authority, for the whole incident reveals the sad state of God’s people at that time.
First of all, Ahab and Jezebel’s abuse of their authority stands out prominently. Ahab’s character appears like that of a spoiled child, who went and sulked when he could not have what he wanted. Jezebel’s wicked disposition went even further, for it was she who devised the plan of the false accusation, and carried it out in Ahab’s name. When the prophet Elijah pronounced God’s judgment on both of them later in the chapter, the more severe judgment fell on Jezebel. The dogs would lick Ahab’s blood in the same place where Naboth had been stoned, but the dogs would actually eat Jezebel. What an awful end to a king and queen!
Consent to Abuse
There is another aspect of authority in this story that is equally abhorrent. What about those who consented to, and carried out, the abuse of authority by Ahab and Jezebel? There is no record that the elders of Naboth’s city made any objection to Jezebel’s orders. Instead of obeying her, they should have refused, knowing very well that Naboth was innocent. Jezebel’s order specifically said that the witnesses should be “sons of Belial,” and there is no question that these elders knew that they were acquiescing in a wicked plot to get rid of an innocent man. While Scripture does not say so, it is quite possible that those elders feared the anger of Jezebel if they refused to carry out her orders, but moral uprightness should have overruled this.
Hypocritical Blasphemy
Also the question arises, What God could Naboth be accused of blaspheming? Israel (the ten tribes) were worshiping idols at this time, and not only the Baals, but also the golden calves. Yes, it is true that several years before, Elijah had won a great victory over the worshipers of Baal on Mount Carmel, but the subsequent history would seem to indicate that the idolatry continued. Was Jezebel actually referring to Jehovah, the true God from whom they had turned away? If so, it makes the crime even worse.
It seemed that the whole nation had gotten so far away from the Lord, and from the morality that ought to have been prevalent in their hearts, that they could carry out this terrible murder without any conscience at all. All this shows us both the abuse of authority and the concession by others to that abuse, when they ought to have stood up against it.
Although you and I may say that we would never give in to something like this, it is easy, perhaps in lesser things, both to abuse authority and also to give in and consent to some wrongdoing which that authority is telling us to do. Our consciences can easily become hardened when we are surrounded by wickedness, and this was no doubt the condition of things in Israel at that time. It is a warning to us to stand firm for what is pleasing to the Lord, and to leave the consequences with Him.
W. J. Prost
If the Foundations Be Destroyed
We are all aware of the importance of foundations, both in a physical sense, and also in a moral sense. In both spheres many of us have been accustomed to having certain firm guidelines that offered at least some guarantees that “things would be done right.” However, we read the following in Psalm 11:3-5, “If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do? The Lord is in His holy temple, the Lord’s throne is in heaven: His eyes behold, His eyelids try, the children of men. The Lord trieth the righteous: but the wicked and him that loveth violence His soul hateth.”
At first glance we notice that this is an Old Testament scripture, and in prophecy it has its application to the nation of Israel in a future day. The Psalms are divided into five books, and the first book is composed of Psalms 1-41 inclusive. It is beyond the scope of this article to go into detail about the prophetic significance of all five books, but we would point out that the first book represents the thoughts and feelings of the godly Jewish remnant during the first half of the seven-year tribulation week. It is characterized most of the time by a reference to God as “Jehovah,” showing us that the godly ones are still in the land of Israel, and are still able to recognize and worship Jehovah as their God. They are seeing the foundations beginning to be destroyed, as the Roman beast and the antichrist begin their evil work of turning that nation away from God.
However, much of what we read in the Psalms can be a help and an encouragement to us as New Testament believers, and in these last days of the dispensation of grace, we too can see the foundations being destroyed. The conditions described in 2nd Timothy 3 are upon us. In many cases we are seeing the moral foundations destroyed — those foundations we once counted on and expected to be maintained. The question is asked, “What can the righteous do”? We get at least two answers in this Psalm.
Jehovah Is in His Temple
First of all, we are reminded that “Jehovah is in the temple of His holiness; Jehovah — His throne is in the heavens: His eyes behold, His eyelids try the children of men” (vs. 4 JND). Whatever men may do in this world, we must remember that the throne of God is not disturbed by it all. Before the apostles had passed off the scene, the Lord allowed declension in the church, and told us what would characterize the “last days.” Our Lord knows the end right from the beginning, and is not surprised by the events that may disturb and alarm us. The Lord is above all that man may purpose, and is also in control of it all. The righteous need to look above the condition of things on the earth, and remember that God’s purposes will always be carried out. “All the promises of God in Him [Christ] are yea, and in Him Amen, unto the glory of God by us” (2 Cor. 1:20). This issue of The Christian is on “Authority,” and we must remember that God’s authority and power have not changed, despite the wickedness of man.
Jehovah Tries the Righteous
Secondly, we are also told in this Psalm that “Jehovah trieth the righteous one” (vs. 5 JND). When conditions become almost intolerable in this world, it is a test for those who are righteous. Will they continue steadfast in a faithful walk before the Lord, or will they succumb to the evil influences around them? History tells us that it is always the sins surrounding them in this world into which the people of God tend to fall. As the days grow darker during the seven-year tribulation period, already referred to, our Lord Jesus could warn His disciples that conditions would become so bad, and Satan’s power become so strong, that “if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect” (Matt. 24:24). It is a test for us today, as the world descends into moral chaos, whether we will remain faithful under God’s authority, or give in to the moral state around us. But God can give us the strength to resist this latter tendency, just as He gave strength to godly men like Noah and Daniel, who stood firm even when they had to stand alone.
To Try to Turn Around the Failure
Another effect that this moral decline may have on us is to induce us to try our best to turn the failure around, and begin some sort of revival. However, we are never told to do this, for it is only by judgment that righteousness will be brought to this world. All the efforts of believers to improve this world will fall to the ground. God Himself may well begin a gospel revival in a certain area, and we can be thankful for this. But this kind of revival will always have as its object the saving of souls out of this world, for heavenly blessing. A revival from God will never be to “make this world a better place.” Rather, Scripture tells us clearly that “evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived” (2 Tim. 3:13).
In summary then, the answer to the question, “If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do”? is that the righteous should continue to act righteously. Even in the present state of this world, man still has a conscience, and a godly life reminds man of right and wrong. What we do, and what we say, is a far better response when the foundations are destroyed, than trying to set the world right. The Lord will do that in His time, but it is not our job.
W. J. Prost
The Present Condition of Things
If there is one feature of the present moment more deplorable than another, it is the loose way in which the truth of God is held. We see, on all sides, a strong tendency to lower the standard of obedience. It is thought narrow-minded to contend for the paramount authority of Holy Scripture. The Word of God is fast losing its place in the hearts and minds of professing Christians. That familiar motto, “the Bible, and the Bible alone is the religion of Protestants,” if it ever was true, is certainly not true now. (This was written at least 135 years ago; what would the writer say today?) There is a most determined effort throughout Christendom to eliminate the Word of God as a paramount infallible authority.
This may seem a strong statement. I may be called a narrow-minded bigot for penning such words, but I am thoroughly convinced of the truth of what I say. I believe if you look closely into the proceedings of the various sections of the professing church; if you will give close attention to what emanates from the press, the pulpit, and the platform, throughout Christendom, you will find that I have ample ground for my statement.
Thanks be to God, there are some bright exceptions. Occasionally you may hear a voice raised for the truth of God — for the complete inspiration and absolute authority of Holy Scripture. But the voices are few and far between. Viewed as a whole, the professing church is gliding rapidly down an inclined plane. The progress of infidelity is truly appalling. I remember, in the days of my childhood, how that a feeling of horror was wakened in the heart by the very mention of an infidel, or of anyone who could dare to speak against our adorable Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, or deny the inspiration of the Word of God.
How changed is the aspect of things in this our day! Look where you will, and you must be struck with the fact that the ignorance of superstition and the impudence of infidelity are fast gaining sway over the minds of millions.
Superstition and Infidelity
As to superstition, what has this enlightened age of ours witnessed? What are the fruits which this pernicious tree has produced at the close of the nineteenth century? In the first place, millions of our fellow men have professed their belief in an immaculate woman; in the second place, their belief in an infallible man! (This is a reference to the virgin Mary and to the pope, respectively.) Think of anyone in his sober senses giving his assent and consent to two such monstrous absurdities! Does it not look uncommonly like that “strong delusion” which God will, ere long, send on Christendom, to believe a lie!
As to infidelity, it is audacious in tampering with the Word of God, in calling in question the divine integrity of the sacred volume, in the scornful rejection of the inspiration of Holy Scripture, in blasphemous assaults upon the Person of the Son of God. You have only to look around you on every side to see the proof of the fact that infidelity is raising its head, with proud audacity, throughout the professing church.
Faithfulness
It is the deep and settled persuasion of this that makes one prize, all the more, the faith and faithfulness of those worthies of old who stood forth, in the face of a hostile world, and boldly maintained the truth of God, in spite of the ruin and failure of the people of God. It is perfectly delightful to contemplate the prophet Elijah, standing by his altar of twelve stones, and offering thereon his offering to the Jehovah of Israel. He was simply standing on the same platform as Moses, in Exodus 33. It is the blessed platform of faith whereon each true believer can take his stand, in calm and holy confidence, and there abide with God.
The standard of God must never be lowered. It is, like Himself, unchangeable. It was as much the duty and the privilege of Elijah to act under that standard, as it was of Solomon, David, Joshua or Moses. Israel might change, but Jehovah or His Word never can, and it is with Him and His eternal word that faith has to do, in all ages. Come what may, we are to walk with God, to lean on Him, cling to Him, draw from Him, find all our springs in Him. He never fails a trusting heart! Let us, therefore, abide in Him and hold fast His Word, spite of everything. While seeing and feeling and owning the real condition of things around us, let us never forget that we have individually to do with God and the Word of His grace.
C. H. Mackintosh (adapted)
Authority Today
In the world in which we find ourselves today, both in relation to government and in the work environment, we are finding challenges to authority in a way that was not known a few years ago. Employers are complaining that younger people do not want to submit to the authority of the boss where they work, and that they do not want to fit into “company culture.” A recent poll done on some young people who worked in a company environment found that a number of them complained about “having to accept criticism,” “having to be on time,” and “having to use the phone.” But by far their greatest source of anxiety was “having to work with people.” When the pollsters asked some of these young people what changes they would make in the workplace, the most popular answer was “mental health days as standard,” with “on site therapy” too.
On the other hand, when some of these young people were confronted about their attitude, their replies brought out some of their frustrations. They complained that the wages offered today for “entry-level” jobs were nowhere near what is needed to rent an apartment, buy groceries, provide transportation for themselves, and have some kind of social life. They also complained that big companies sometimes look more at their products and profits than their people, and demote them, lay them off, or even fire them, seemingly without any consideration as to how these actions affect their employees. They felt that they should not have to work hard, only to be discarded when it suited the company. They also asked how a boss could expect them always to be submissive and yet be creative too.
Public Disobedience
In relation to government, we are seeing more pronounced public disobedience to established authority; laws are broken, police are resisted by large crowds, protests are conducted when they have been prohibited, and violent crimes such as carjacking and other forms of robbery have greatly increased. Shoplifting in particular has increased to such a degree that many larger enterprises are not bothering to prosecute smaller thefts, even if the perpetrators are caught. The widespread nature of all this indifference to authority echoes the words of Ecclesiastes 8:11 — “Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.” If others shoplift, why should not I do it? If others board the bus without paying, why should I pay? If government officials are often corrupt, why should I have to be honest? This problem is not, of course, limited to young people; it may affect people at any age.
This difficulty can extend into spiritual things as well, as older ones may operate under different “rules” and thought patterns than younger people. Those who take public part in meetings for spiritual instruction are sometimes perceived as being “out of touch” with the realities faced by younger people. When those same older ones seek to exert their authority as “elders,” that authority may be resented. Once again there may seem to be a difficult problem with no easy solution.
The Generation Gap
It is worthwhile noting that a “generation gap” is nothing new in this world, although it may manifest itself in different ways. In Ezra 3:10-13, when some had returned to Jerusalem after the Babylonian captivity, they laid the foundation in order to build the temple. It is recorded in verses 10-11 That many of the people rejoiced and “shouted with a great shout ... because the foundation of the house of the Lord was laid.” However, others who were “ancient men, that had seen the first house ... wept with a loud voice” (vs. 12). Surely the Lord understood both!
What then is the solution to the present-day difficulty of younger people resenting the authority of older ones, either in the secular world, or in spiritual things? I would suggest that the Word of God gives us the answer.
When God sets up authority in any particular sphere, whether in the workplace, in the government, in the family, or in the assembly, He expects those in a position of submission to respect that authority. We must recognize that ultimately all authority comes from God, and if we give up God, then we will not respect any authority. If we reverence the Lord, we should respect and submit to the authority He has established. It is worthwhile to note that when the Apostle Paul exhorted believers in his day to “be subject unto the higher powers” (Rom. 13:1), they were living under an evil and corrupt power in Rome. When the book of Romans was written, Nero was the emperor, and he hated the Christians. Yet Paul told believers to pay tribute, to submit to the authority, and reminded the saints that those people were “ordained of God.” This is true in any area of authority.
The “Master in Heaven”
However, the Word of God speaks to those in authority too, and tells them that they too have a “Master in heaven.” (Col. 4:1). Fathers, masters, husbands — all are reminded to exercise their authority in a right way. A brother from the 19th century made a penetrating remark in his ministry, saying that when disorder and confusion arise within any sphere of authority and responsibility that God has set up, it is usually the one in authority that has failed first. This does not excuse those under authority for rebelling against it, nor is it always true that the higher member has failed first. But in my experience and observation over a lifetime, I have to agree that this brother was right. It is a sobering thought for those of us who are older.
The great thing to remember is that God expects you and me to honor Him and His authority, whether we find ourselves in a position of submission, or a position of authority. I cannot use the failure of others to justify failure in myself. “Every one of us shall give account of himself to God” (Rom. 14:12). Whatever abuse of authority or lack of submission to authority we see in this, we as believers in Christ are to show God’s pattern wherever we find ourselves. As always, however, human authority cannot exert itself to challenge God’s authority. Derived authority cannot challenge supreme authority. If human authority asks us to do that which dishonors God, God’s authority must overrule. But in every other case, we are called to submit to the authority under which God has placed us.
Submission – Authority
In closing, I would like to tell a true story that illustrates how each side (submission and authority) reacted in the right way. A middle-aged Christian woman worked in a small company where most of the employees were women. In addition to being good at her work, the Christian woman was also a good seamstress. Other women would occasionally bring in articles of clothing, and ask her to hem a skirt, shorten the legs on trousers, put in a zipper, etc. She cheerfully did these little favors at home after work, and rarely charged anything for doing them. One day her boss brought in a very difficult piece of sewing work which he wanted done as part of a gift for his young daughter, and asked this woman if she could do it. It was something she had never done before, but she told him that she would do her best. It took quite a bit of time, but it turned out perfectly, and her boss and his daughter were thrilled with it. Once again, she did not expect any reward for this extra work, but the next day her boss gave her an envelope and remarked, “This is because you are always ready to go the extra mile.” In the envelope was a check for five hundred dollars. The Christian woman did her part, but her boss showed his appreciation. He was wealthy, and gave her a bonus according to his wealth. When all are willing to obey the Word of God, there is seldom any difficulty.
W. J. Prost
The Word Gives Authority
From first to last in the sacred writings their divine authority is set before us. Even when Paul preached, who had received his commission directly from the Lord Himself, he says, “not of men neither by man.” The Bereans were specially commended by the Holy Spirit, because they searched the scriptures daily, “whether those things were so” (Acts 17:11-12). How important it is at this time to see that instead of the church giving authority or adding any value to the written Word, it is that Word which is the only authority in the church, and is sufficient to guide, instruct and correct every believer and furnish him unto every good work.
Young Christian, Vol. 1
Assertion of Authority
When Paul was dealing with the assembly in Corinth, there was the fullest consciousness of authority, so that he might have carried it with a high hand, using the rod. Instead there was the patient exercise of grace. His object was not the assertion of his authority, but the awakening of their conscience, and the calling out their faith into exercise. The immediate presence of the Apostle at Corinth would doubtless have had the effect of silencing faction. He might have authoritatively ruled the many points in discussion, some bowing through real respect, others through fear; but this would have defeated his object. His authority, and with it himself, would have come between their consciences and God; and thus he would have habituated them to bow to some present authority, so that conscience and faith would never be exercised at all. The Apostle, with unquestionable authority, and the full consciousness of the possession of it, saw the danger of this and avoided it.
The history of the church has too plainly proved the reality of the danger, by Christians doing that which the Apostle avoided. They have themselves constituted an authority to which they bow, but by the acknowledgment of which they effectually hinder the exercise of faith and conscience. Is there an ordered and regulated society of Christians to be found which has not interposed its own authority, where the Apostle would not introduce his, and in which personal influence is not extensively used? If personal influence ever could be safely used, it surely might have been by the Apostle. But he acted in a manner even to lose it, because his object was Christ and the real blessing of saints, not himself and a party of Christians. The presence and influence of the Apostle had kept the Galatian churches from allowing the introduction of the Judaizing error. “It is good to be zealously affected, always in a good thing, and not only when I am present with you” (Gal. 4:18). It was his presence, and not faith and conscience, which had kept out the evil, so that when he was gone, there was no real barrier against it. In Philippians, we find the happy contrast to this: “Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you, both to will and to do of His good pleasure” (Phil. 2:12-13). Here we find faith and conscience in exercise before God. It was not Paul, but God who worked in them. Happy is the condition of saints when thus their souls are kept by faith in immediate contact with God. They will then readily own any authority, and profit by any ministry which is of God; but they will not allow either the one or the other to displace God.
J. L. Harris
Application of Authority on the Soul
Another point therefore is brought out here: the authority with which our souls are directly in communion, on which our conduct rests, the rule by which it is guided, and the application to the individual soul of that authority and rule. The question to consider involves whether it is by the intervention of the church as an authority between me and God? Or whether it is the direct and immediate connection of my soul with God, and immediate subjection to His authority in His word? It is the latter, not the former. This is no rejection of ministry. If another knows the word better than myself, and has more spiritual power, he can help me. This is according to the mind and will of God. But he does not come between my soul and the Word, but brings me more fully into acquaintance with what God says to me in it. My soul is only the more in immediate relationship with God by His Word. This only is the rule and measure of my responsibility, the expression of the authority of God over me. Another may be the means of my being more completely so; but he puts me thereby in immediate relationship to God by the Word, more fully and more in detail, but does not take me out of the relationship. It remains immediate, as before, and there can be no other; it is direct with God; and God’s title is absolute, and embraces the whole of my being in obedience. He exercises His authority immediately by the Word. This may sanction, and does, duties towards others; but these are acknowledged by the authority of, and in obedience to, the Word—to God in His word. I am to fulfill every relationship in which God has placed me, but by and according to the Word. My first, immediate, and all-ruling relationship is with God by the Word. It has precedence of all others, rules in all others, and claims absolute and immediate subjection. “We ought to obey” is the Christian’s ensign; but “we ought to obey God rather than men” is the absolute claim of God, who has revealed Himself fully, and reveals Himself immediately to us by the Word.
J. N. Darby
Submission
The path that I have trod,
Has brought me nearer God,
Tho’ oft it led thro’ sorrow’s gates.
Tho’ not the way I’d choose,
In my way I might lose
The joy that yet for me awaits.
Not what I wish to be,
Nor where I wish to go,
For who am I that I should choose my way?
The Lord shall choose for me,
‘Tis better far, I know,
So let Him bid me go, or stay.
The cross that I must bear,
If I a crown would wear,
Is not the cross that I should take;
But, since on me ‘tis laid,
I’ll take it, unafraid,
And bear it for the Master’s sake.
Submission to the will
Of Him who guides me still
Is surety of His love revealed:
My soul shall rise above
This world in which I move;
I conquer only where I yield.
C. Austin Miles