Acknowledging the Highest Authority
- Bishop Keith Butler
- Jul 17, 2023
- 2 min read
That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. (Romans 10:9)
Paul emphasized that our confession begins within the depths of our hearts, not our minds. This word of faith he preached addresses the central issue of righteousness by faith, not by works or adherence to the Law.
So, what does it mean to confess? The Greek word homologeo sheds light on this term—it means to acknowledge or declare something. In our case, it's about acknowledging with enthusiasm and conviction that Jesus is not just any authority, but the highest Authority of all. When we talk about Jesus as the highest Authority, we're acknowledging that He surpasses every other authority in the world. Think about it—whether it's your local governor, the president, or even people with degrees and titles — although they all hold some level of authority, Jesus transcends them all. He is above every earthly authority, religious belief, and intellectual perspective. Recognizing Jesus as the highest Authority requires us to submit ourselves to His Lordship and acknowledge His Supremacy.
Now, the term submission is something many believers don’t want to talk about, but when it comes to Jesus as the highest Authority, submission is an act of wisdom and trust. People often struggle with submitting themselves to Jesus and if they keep fighting, it won't end well. If we truly believe in Jesus' unmatched authority, we prioritize His words above any other opinion, political agenda, or cultural narrative. Jesus' authority surpasses everything, so there's no room for arguments or compromise when His Word speaks. When we confess Jesus as the highest Authority, we align ourselves with His truth and wisdom. It means we no longer rely solely on human wisdom, cultural norms, or personal opinions to guide our lives. We decide to surrender to the highest Authority and seek to live according to His Word. This alignment brings clarity, purpose, and a deep sense of peace.
Practical Application
Acknowledge Jesus as the highest Authority in your life. When faced with decisions, seek His guidance, and align your words and choices with His Word. Let your confession reflect your trust in His wisdom and power.
