July 3, 2004

THE HEAD OVER ALL AUTHORITY

"In him you have been brought to completion. Every power and authority in the universe is subject to him as Head" (Colossians 2:10, NEB).

What a sweeping affirmation of Christ's authority is in this power-packed title! By virtue of His creative and redemptive might, Jesus is here declared the Head of the whole human race and of all created things.

All authority is derived from Christ. Man has no authority of his own. The apostle Paul argues that because of Christ's resurrection, He has been exalted "far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given" (Ephesians 1:21, NIV). Implicit in this statement is the idea that Christ's abiding presence in us gives us enabling power to live victoriously. Speaking as the resurrected Lord, Christ made this astonishing claim: "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth" (Matthew 28:18, NKJV).

Because Christ is the Head of all authorities and all things are subject to Him, we have the assurance of victory. With Paul we can confidently say, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13, NKJV). Here is a powerful statement of fact: "There is nothing for this life or for eternity that man cannot receive through spiritual union with Christ."--SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 7, p. 202. "Notwithstanding all our various temperaments, our different defects and imperfections, notwithstanding the attacks of the enemy, his grievous temptations and suggestions, we are said to be complete in him who is the head of all principality and power."--Bible Echo and Signs of the Times, January 15, 1892.

My Prayer Today: Lord, as Head over all authority, You have promised me infinite power. Help me to claim that power. Amen.