Lord’s Library editors answer the question “What does the Bible say about authority?” with specific Bible references.
Have you ever asked yourself the question “What does the Bible say about authority?” If you have, you’re definitely not alone! And since the Bible helps Christians form a foundational understanding of important topics, it’s imperative that one know how Scripture describes authority in different contexts. The Webster’s 1828 Dictionary defines authority as “Legal power, or a right to command or to act; as the authority of a prince over subjects, and of parents over children. Power; rule; sway.”
Now armed with a basic definition of authority, Lord’s Library editors thought it would be a helpful exercise to provide Biblical context. As a result, we compiled this short resource which captures all notable mentions of the word authority, as well as its other forms. If you’ve been wondering what the King James Bible says about authority, scroll on for additional detail.
Note: If you want to know what the Bible says about authority and 206 other important topics (to be exact), our editors recommend Spencer Smith’s Doctrine Matters: Bible Topic Guidebook.
What Does the Bible Say About Authority?
Matthew 7:29
“For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.”
John 5:27
“And hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man.”
Acts 9:14
“And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name.”
1 Timothy 2:12
“But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.”
Titus 2:15
“These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.”
Mark 1:22
“And when he came out, he could not speak unto them: and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple: for he beckoned unto them, and remained speechless.”
Luke 4:36
“And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out.”
Luke 7:8
“For I also am a man set under authority, having under me soldiers, and I say unto one, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.”
2 Corinthians 10:8
“For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed:”
1 Timothy 2: 1-2
“I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.”
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