Almost every activity of life involves some authorization. We can drive only when we have a license; marrying requires one too; so does hunting and fishing. Attending a movie or sporting event requires a ticket; so does flying on a plane. A policeman is authorized to enforce the law, a doctor to practice medicine, a pharmacist to dispense drugs, and the list is endless. All rational thinking people believe these things, and many others like them, are reasonable. Without proper authority the result would be chaos and destruction. Can you imagine living where there is no authority? It’s dangerous enough to live where many people do not recognize or submit to established authority.
Is it not strange that in religion many want no authority. They want everyone to be able to do their own thing, believe what they want to believe, live as they desire, and expect our merciful God to save them. This concept is not even rational, much less biblical. And those who believe this is the way are deceived. The Bible says, “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.” (Gal.6:7,8)
Christ was asked, “By what authority are you doing these things, and who gave you this authority?” (Matt.21:23) This was a sensible question. Even the Son of God did not speak without authority. The Father gave him authority. He said, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth…” (Matt.28:18) Ultimately, all authority rests with God (the godhead – the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit). God has spoken to us through his inspired, authoritative book, the Bible. This authority forbids any other authority. (Gal.1:8,9; Rev.22:18,19) The Scriptures are our authority because they were given by the Holy Spirit. The writers of the Scriptures were guided word for word by the Holy Spirit. Those who fail to recognize the authority of the Scriptures in all matters of faith and practice will suffer eternal consequences.
Richard