5 statements of Jesus regarding the use of Authority

 Read Micah 2.

A disgraced leader finally was forced to admit his immorality, cover up, and lying.  When he spoke to the nation, he said he did it for "the worst possible motives--because I could." 

The LORD takes very seriously those who abuse their power and influence over others.  Leaders in Judah used their God-given wealth and position to greedily oppress and take advantage of the people.  Their sins included seizing property (v.2) and separating parents from their children (v.9).  At the root was their sin of pride (v.3).  They foolishly thought that they could do whatever they wanted and get away with it.

Second to the rich and powerful were the abusive influences of ungodly religious leaders.  While the prophets of God preached repentance of sin, the false teachers responded with "do not preach" (v.6).  They countered by saying that God would not punish His people and He would not take them from the land He promised to them.  They tried to dupe the people with their messages of peace, prosperity, and partying.  "I will preach to you of wine and strong drink" (v.11).  The people surrounded themselves with those who spoke what they wanted to hear rather than the truth. 

Meanwhile, God's judgment was coming upon a people who were unprepared.  "It will be a time of disaster" (v.3b).

Jesus had much to say about authority and the proper use of power.
1. Jesus is the source of all power.
"All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me." (Matthew 28:18)
2. Jesus is the example of how to use authority.
"...even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many."(Matthew 20:28)
3. Jesus forbids the abuse of power.
"You know that the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them.  It shall not be so among you.  But whoever would be great among you must be your servant." (Matthew 20:25-27)
4. Jesus gives authority for opportunities to serve and protect others.
"Let every person be subject to the governing authorities.  For there is no authority except from God." (Romans 13:1)
5. Jesus will hold each individual accountable for what He gave them.
"Everyone to whom much is given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more." (Luke 12:48)