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The operation of the world system is based on individual ability, and corporate capability. Unfortunately, this type of structure is the dominating authority that seeks to govern all aspects of living. Consequently, the moral values and spiritual climate of society spirals downward unless the Church of Jesus Christ rises to the cause.
People are hungry for positions, prestige, fame, and fortune because they have an innate desire for power. The need for power and control are God given desires placed within mankind, which are necessary for him to have dominion over the earth (Genesis 1:26-28). Unfortunately, those desires were perverted at the fall of man.
Man’s need to control is now driven by lustful desires and self-serving motives, and misconceptions about positions of power. Being in authoritative positions and doing powerful things can be exhilarating. An example of this is recorded in Luke 10:17-20. Jesus appointed and sent out seventy other disciples ahead to prepare the people for his coming. He gave them power and authority to preach, pronounce blessings, and heal the sick. Upon their return, they were ecstatic to have power and authority over demons by using Jesus’ name. However, Jesus’ reply to them was do not be all excited about demons being subject to you. Instead, rejoice because your name is on heaven’s roll. Wow! That must have cut deep!
Truth is, if we are not careful, we can become overly excited about our power and authority. This can happen when we take ownership of the power and authority that is delegated to us through the anointing and work of the Holy Spirit. In addition, we open our heart to pride when other peoples’ perception of power attract us. This is a dangerous matter because our attraction distracts from the real source of the power —God Almighty. And no one receives His glory!
Just like the world, church leaders are vulnerable to becoming power hungry.
Having power and authority can present more challenges than positive solutions if it is not administered through the Word of God.
Today, society faces more challenges because of the abuse of power and authority among people operating in their own abilities and capabilities, ungodly beliefs and impulsive whims.
The Church cannot be a part of the problem. We must provide the solution using the power and authority given us by Jesus the Christ. The Church has power and authority to use the name of Jesus. The demonstration of this power is the operation of the Holy Spirit in the life of believers. As believers, we are in position to reign in life as we allow the Holy Spirit to control our lives. This is powerful living. It takes greater power to submit to the control of another than it does to be in control.
We are not of the world; therefore, we cannot operate like the world’s system. The kingdom of God operates very differently. Therefore, we must rely on the power and authority that has been delegated to us by Jesus Christ and sealed by the Holy Spirit. The power that the world needs, we have. Are we using it to influence the world? “But you shall receive power (ability, efficiency, and might) when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you shall be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and all Judea and Samaria and to the ends (the very bounds) of the earth.” Acts 1:8 Amplified.
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