Spiritual Authority

A study on the book of II Corinthians

Spiritual Authority

II Cor. 10:7-11

Introduction: There are so many things that look good today yet they lack any quality. Sometimes in the glitz and glamour of advertising they cover the real story. The world is a an expert at creating images through the camera lens. The internet pictures and stereotypical imaging all play on our minds. These things cause people to expect things to be a certain way.

The Corinthian church had been schooled into believing that authority is that which is established by “lording over” others and to act important. This worldly philosophy had invaded the Corinthian church and they did not understand Paul’s authority as a preacher. Jesus had to teach His disciples that position and power were not evidences of authority. God calls us to serve rather than to be served Mark. 10:35. Their misunderstanding needed to be corrected so they would understand the Biblical way of leading and serving.

God does give delegated authority but it comes with proper spiritual responsibilities. Godliness in attitude and action is essential. Too many think it is talent or desire or availability. God shows us the Biblical understanding of authority.

I. The power v. 7

A. The expectation

1. The Corinthians put too much attention to external credentials by the world which sought to undermine Paul’s authority-school credentials.

2. He is not against credentials just the adequacy of their supposed credentials.

3. They were impressed with the following:

a. Outward appearance 5:12

b. Group they belonged to 1:12

c. The authoritarian manner 11:20

d. The rhetoric skill 11:6

4. They were all externals which had very little to nothing on the inside

B. The explanation

1. Paul was not denying his authority but he refused to exercise his authoritiy in an unscriptural manner.

2. His power and authority came from the work of God in his heart and life.

3. Our lives are so interwined with Christ that we are one in Him

“That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” (John 17:21)

II. The purpose v.8

A. What it is not

1. The Judaizers were using the people to build up themselves rather than building up the people.

2. Some people like to use their authority for selfish means-pride, position, profit,

3. Strong dictatorial authority does not build up but tear down.

B. What it is

1. Paul emphasized his call was of God G. 1:11-12

“But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.” (Galatians 1:11–12)

2. The purpose of this authority was to build up the Corinthians in their faith.

3. Building up takes love

“Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth.” (1 Corinthians 8:1)

4. This spiritual authority means that we preach heavenly truth in Godly love.

5. Judaizers used the church to build up their authority while Paul used his authority to build up the church

III. The presentation vv. 9-11

A. Consistent personal life vv. 9-10

1. The power of God rests on an individual when his private life is right with God.

2. They were accusing Paul of writing powerful letters but in presence coming in a very different manner.

3. Paul was saying his message was of divine origin given to him by God from the prayer closet.

4. It is the message not the man that has the authority.

B. Consistent public life v.11

1. Paul was saying there is no contradiction between his preaching and his writing.

2. The letters and the preaching came from a heart of love.

3. The evidence of a person’s spiritual life is the way he views and uses authority.

4. The Godly Christian knows when to wait in loving patience and when to act with determined power.

5. A mature person does not use authority to demand respect but command respect by their life.

Conclusion: God wants us to use His authority properly.