AUTHORITY

Introduction:
In order for a society to function properly, authority must be recognized in every avenue of life in our government, homes, and schools. The same is true in religious matters. Someone must be in authority . . . that someone is Christ.

1. JESUS CHRIST HAS COMPLETE AUTHORITY IN RELIGIOUS MATTERS.
   
   1. God the Father said men are to listen to Jesus.
      Now after six days Jesus took Peter, James, and John his brother, brought them up on a high mountain by themselves, and was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him. Then Peter answered and said to Jesus, "Lord, it is good for us to be here; if You wish, let us make here three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah." While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them; and suddenly a voice came out of the cloud, saying, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!" -- Matthew 17:1-5
      
   2. Jesus said He had been given complete authority in Heaven and on earth.
      Then Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth." -- Matthew 28:18
      
      1. Note "ALL authority" in Heaven and earth.
         
      2. If Jesus has all authority in Heaven and on earth, how much does that leave Moses, Elijah, and other religious leaders (living or dead)?
         
   3. Paul said that God gave Christ to be the head over "all things."
      And He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all. -- Ephesians 1:22-23

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