The Bible teaches us about authority and power in surprising ways. These scriptures remind us of God’s ultimate sovereignty and how His power guides us. Let’s reflect on how biblical authority shapes our lives, encourages us to trust in Him, and empowers us to act with wisdom and love.
Bible Verses About Authority And Power
Romans 13:1 – God’s ordained structure of authority
“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” – Romans 13:1
Matthew 28:18 – All authority belongs to Jesus
“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” – Matthew 28:18
Philippians 2:9-11 – Every knee will bow to Christ’s authority
“Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow.” – Philippians 2:9-11
Isaiah 9:6 – Christ as the ultimate authority
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” – Isaiah 9:6
John 19:11 – Authority granted by God
“Jesus answered, “You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above. Therefore the one who handed me over to you is guilty of a greater sin.” – John 19:11
Psalm 62:11 – Power and authority belong to God
“One thing God has spoken, two things I have heard: ‘Power belongs to you, God.” – Psalm 62:11
2 Timothy 1:7 – Power through faith
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” – 2 Timothy 1:7
Acts 1:8 – Empowered for mission
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” – Acts 1:8
Ephesians 1:21 – Christ’s authority far above all
“Far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.” – Ephesians 1:21
1 Peter 5:5 – Submitting to God’s authority
“In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” – 1 Peter 5:5
Matthew 7:29 – Authority in teaching
“Because he taught as one having authority, and not as the scribes.” – Matthew 7:29
Colossians 2:10 – Complete in Christ’s authority
“And in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority.” – Colossians 2:10
Revelation 12:10 – The accuser and power of salvation
“Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: ‘Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Messiah.’” – Revelation 12:10
Matthew 16:19 – Authority to bind and loose
“I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” – Matthew 16:19
John 17:2 – Authority to give eternal life
“For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him.” – John 17:2
Romans 8:31 – God’s authority with us
“What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” – Romans 8:31
1 Corinthians 15:24 – Christ’s reign and authority
“Then the end will come, when he hands over the kingdom to God the Father after he has destroyed all dominion, authority, and power.” – 1 Corinthians 15:24
Hebrews 13:17 – Authority of leaders
“Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account.” – Hebrews 13:17
Psalm 103:19 – Sovereign rule of God
“The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all.” – Psalm 103:19
Isaiah 40:10 – God’s strength and authority
“See, the Sovereign Lord comes with power, and he rules with a mighty arm.” – Isaiah 40:10
Revelation 1:6 – Made into a kingdom
“And has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen.” – Revelation 1:6
Luke 10:19 – Authority over enemy forces
“I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.” – Luke 10:19
Mark 11:24 – Authority through prayer
“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” – Mark 11:24
Job 42:2 – God’s plans and purposes prevail
“I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted.” – Job 42:2
Acts 4:29 – Boldness in authority
“Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness.” – Acts 4:29
Luke 22:25-26 – True greatness in authority
“Jesus said to them, ‘The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those in authority call themselves Benefactors. But you are not to be like that.’” – Luke 22:25-26
1 John 4:4 – Greater is He within us
“You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” – 1 John 4:4
Matthew 10:1 – Authority to heal and cast out
“Jesus called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease and sickness.” – Matthew 10:1
2 Thessalonians 3:3 – God’s faithfulness protects
“But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.” – 2 Thessalonians 3:3
James 4:7 – Submit and resist
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” – James 4:7
Also Read: 40 Bible Verses About Not Caring What Others Think
What Does the Bible Say About Authority and Power?
When we look at the Bible, it provides us with a comprehensive understanding of authority and power, often portraying them as gifts from God that require responsible stewardship.
The concept of authority is introduced early on in the Scriptures. In Genesis, God gives humanity dominion over the earth, commanding us to “rule over” the creatures. Here, authority is coupled with responsibility, serving as a reminder that power is not an end in itself but a means to steward and care for creation.
As we explore further, the New Testament offers deeper insights into the nature of true authority and power. Jesus Christ exemplifies ultimate authority in a way that is both radical and profound.
In the Gospels, He exercises His power not through coercion or domination but through service and sacrifice. For instance, in Matthew, Jesus states that true greatness in His kingdom is characterized by being a servant. He demonstrates this truth consummately at the Last Supper when He washes His disciples’ feet and later on the cross, where He lays down His life for the sins of humanity.
In addition, the apostle Paul often writes about authority in his letters. In Romans, Paul advises us to respect earthly authorities, explaining that they have been established by God to maintain order and justice.
However, this respect comes with the caveat that obedience to human authority is secondary to our allegiance to God’s ultimate authority. The underlying principle here is that all human authority is derived from God’s sovereign will and should reflect His justice and love.
Moreover, the Bible warns us about the misuse of power. The Proverbs offer timeless lessons about pride and the temptation to wield power selfishly. It teaches that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.
We are reminded that those who hold spiritual or earthly authority are held to a higher standard, as illustrated by James’ caution that those who teach and lead will be judged with greater strictness.
The book of Revelation also provides a powerful depiction of Christ’s ultimate authority, portraying Him as the sovereign ruler over all creation. In the end times, all worldly powers will submit to His eternal and righteous rule. This culminates in the assurance that, although human authorities may falter, God’s supreme authority remains unwavering and just.
In conclusion, the Bible instructs us that authority and power are gifts from God that should reflect His character of love, justice, and mercy. It calls us to exercise whatever measure of authority we possess with humility and integrity, being mindful that we serve a higher King who exemplifies perfect power through selfless love and grace.