True Authority

The journey toward understanding spiritual authority is crucial for every Christian leader. Spiritual authority is not merely a title or a position of power. It is an empowerment from God, granted through the Holy Spirit, to advance His kingdom on earth. The development of this authority happens as a leader navigates life’s adversities, trials, and tests, growing stronger in character and more aligned with God’s will. Spiritual authority is the result of overcoming challenges, just as Jesus did during His time on earth.

Charles Kraft defines spiritual authority as “the God-given right to receive and use God’s power that flows from the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.” This type of authority is not self-made but delegated directly from God. It comes from a place of submission and obedience. 

As Jesus showed in His ministry, effective spiritual authority requires leaders to first submit to God’s will before exercising power. Jesus embodied this concept throughout His life by leading with meekness and humility – at the same time that He demonstrated His authority over sin, sickness, nature, and demonic forces. His authority was never used to control or manipulate others. Instead, it served to liberate and heal.

Receiving the Holy Spirit is essential for accessing spiritual authority. The Greek word for power in Acts 1:8 is dynamis. You might think of it as “dynamite power” when you see that the English word dynamite comes from it. This power equips leaders not for dominance but for effective service. 

Jesus demonstrated this power when He emerged from the wilderness full of the Holy Spirit’s power. Although He was God, He showed us what was also possible for us as humans through the power of the Holy Spirit as the Spirit empowered Him to preach, heal, and perform miracles. He served as a model for what it means to operate in God’s authority – through humility and obedience to God’s command. Leaders, similarly, are called to act with a heart of service, using their authority to build others up and advance the kingdom rather than to seek personal gain or influence.

Obedience is a key element in growing spiritual authority. Just as Adam and Eve lost their dominion through disobedience, Jesus – who is the “second Adam” – regained it through His obedience during His wilderness testing. Jesus’ 40-day trial in the wilderness, where He was tempted by Satan, was not meant to seduce Him into sin but to prove and strengthen His authority for greater ministry. Throughout the tests that questioned His identity, purpose, and mission, Jesus remained obedient to God’s word, which in turn strengthened His authority to perform miracles and advance God’s kingdom.

Spiritual authority is not limited to church settings but extends into every sphere of life. It can be exercised in personal relationships, family settings, workplaces, and communities. For instance, parents can use spiritual authority to pray for protection over their families, while leaders in the workplace can influence decisions and foster justice. The way authority is exercised matters greatly. True authority is not characterized by striving, manipulation, or control but by peace, humility, and trust in God. It is manifested through acts of service, not through attempts to dominate or oppress.

While true spiritual authority is empowering and liberating, there is also a counterfeit version that uses manipulation, control, and fear. This false authority often stems from insecurity, pride, or a desire for power. Leaders must guard against these tendencies, remaining vigilant in their motives and intentions. True spiritual authority will always result in freedom, healing, and growth rather than in division or oppression.

To grow in spiritual authority, leaders need to focus on submission, service, and prayer. The first step is to submit to God’s authority, acknowledging His lordship and surrendering personal ambitions to His will. This kind of submission creates a foundation upon which spiritual authority can be built. The second step involves cultivating a heart of service. Just as Jesus served others without seeking recognition, leaders must also aim to uplift, empower, and encourage those they lead.

Remaining connected to the Holy Spirit is essential for sustaining spiritual authority. Prayer becomes a critical tool in this process, enabling leaders to align with God’s will and to speak life into situations. Whether leading a church, a family, or a business, prayer allows leaders to exercise their authority effectively, moving mountains and bringing about change.