To understand the origin, purpose, and power of authority.

God holds ultimate control over all His creation. He establishes laws, institutions, and authority to maintain order in His creation. He delegates authority to men to regulate conduct and to maintain peace in the home, the church, and the government. But that in no way diminishes God's authority over all things.

We properly exercise authority only as we submit ourselves to God and to those whom He has set over us. As we submit to God and his delegated authority, we achieve our highest purpose and ultimate usefulness. If we resist God's will and rebel against those whom He has set over us, we condemn ourselves. "Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation" (Romans 13:2).

God gave us life, order and authority to do His will "in earth, as it is in heaven." In this life, God allows us to choose how we will respond to His will. But ultimately, God will bring all things back into subjection to Himself.

Table of Contents

• 1. The Origin of Authority
• 2. The Authority of Jesus Christ
• 3. The Authority of the Bible
• 4. The Authority of the Home
• 5. The Authority of the Government
• 6. The Authority of the Church
• 7. Faithful Stewardship