1. This morning we showed from Colossians 3:16a that we are to let the Word of Christ dwell in us richly in all wisdom. 2. This evening we are concentrating on another important responsibility given in this verse -- we are to "do all in the name of the Lord." 3. This responsibility requires us to consider several principles that relate to "the Lord's authority." 4. Let us begin our study with the fact that . . .
Discussion:
I. JESUS CLAIMED TO HAVE ALL AUTHORITY (Matthew 28:18)
A. Jesus said that He has all "power" [authority] "in heaven and in earth." B. He also said that His authority had been given to Him. C. This should lead us to determine who gave Jesus all authority.
II. (John 17:1-2) JESUS REVEALED THE SOURCE OF HIS AUTHORITY
A. Jesus was praying on this occasion, and He addressed His prayer to the Father. B. Jesus indicated that the Father had "given him power [authority] over all flesh." C. Jesus has all authority -- the Father gave it to Him. D. The Father also said that we are to "hear" Jesus (Matthew 17:5).
III. JESUS DEMONSTRATED HIS AUTHORITY ON MANY OCCASIONS
A. He demonstrated His authority: 1. when He calmed the stormy sea (Matthew 8:23-27) 2. when He forgave a man's sins (Matthew 9:1-8) 3. when He cast out unclean spirits (Mark 1:23-27) 4. when He delegated authority to the apostles (Luke 9:1-2) 5. when He was resurrected (Romans 1:4). B. Considering the many occasions when Jesus demonstrated His authority should lead us to reach the same conclusion that Nicodemus reached in John 3:2.
IV. THE POSITION THAT JESUS OCCUPIES REFLECTS HIS AUTHORITY
A. (Acts 2:33) Peter said that Jesus is "by the right hand of God exalted." B. At God's right hand, Jesus rules as the head of His church (Ephesians 1:22-23; Colossians 1:18). C. Considering the exalted position that Jesus occupies should lead us to recognize Him as "King of kings, and Lord of Lords" (Revelation 19:16).
V. APPLICATION
A. In Colossians 3:17 we are taught to submit to the Lord's authority -- we are to say and do the things that Christ authorizes us to say and do. B. By letting the Word of Christ dwell in us richly in all wisdom (Colossians 3:16a) we will know what He authorizes us to say and do. C. To illustrate the point, what kind of music does the Lord authorize in worship? (see Colossians 3:16b)
Conclusion:
1. Let us always recognize the Lord's divine authority. 2. Let us submit to the Lord's authority by doing all in His name.
