At times, it can be challenging for us to recognize and submit to the authority of others. We sometimes push back, fight against, and question authority. Sadly, we do this most of all with our Savior. Every time we sin, we rebel against His authority and insist on our own ways.

As Jesus arrived on the scene, he began teaching with authority, forgiving sins, and demolishing manmade laws. The religious leaders asked Jesus, “By what authority are you doing these things, or who gave you the authority to do them?” (Mark 11:28). Throughout the Gospel of Mark, we come to understand that the authority of Jesus is grounded in the identity of Jesus.

Jesus is the beloved Son of God. He is the Lord and promised Messiah. He is God in the flesh. Therefore, Jesus possesses all authority in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:18). He commands the wind and the waves, and they listen to Him (Mark 4:39-41). He instructs the dead to rise, and they get up and walk (Mark 5:35-43). By His authority He laid down His life, and by His authority He took it up again (John 10:18). Jesus has authority over all things, and He exercises His authority for our good and His glory.

How do we respond to the authority of Jesus? No doubt, we sometimes push back against His authority, fight it, or question Him. When this happens, let’s run to God with hearts full of repentance. Jesus is the authoritative Son of God. To follow Him is to be humbly submissive and joyfully dependent. Let’s be people who see and submit to His authority rather than people who seek to supplant Him on His throne. This is for our good and God’s glory.

Resources:

• Two Ways to Live

• I’m Afraid of Surrendering to Christ—What Can I Do? - Interview with John Piper

• How the Church Submits to Jesus - Tim Challies

Reflection Questions:

• Why is Jesus worthy of our submission?

• In what ways do you find it challenging to submit to Jesus?

• How can you grow in humble submission and joyful dependence?