Slideshow image

Understanding and living in Kingdom authority requires a transformation of our character. Jesus’ teachings, especially His Sermon on the Mount, provide the roadmap to Kingdom living. This structured guide breaks down key elements to help you grasp and apply Kingdom principles in your life.

What Is Kingdom Authority?

  • Authority vs. Power:

    • Power can force actions but lacks relational depth.
    • Authority is relational, requiring submission and respect.

  • Jesus' Authority:

    • “For He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes” (Matthew 7:29, NKJV).
    • Jesus’ authority wasn’t just about knowledge; it was rooted in His divine relationship with the Father.

  • Relational Nature of Authority:

    • Authority flows when two parties understand and respect the relationship.
    • Example: The centurion in Matthew 8 understood authority and trusted Jesus to heal with just a word.

Keys to Unlocking the Kingdom

  1. Prioritize Kingdom Living Over Miracles:

    • “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matthew 6:33, NKJV).
    • Miracles are a byproduct of a heart aligned with Kingdom principles.
    • Focus on the giver of miracles, not just the miracles themselves.

  2. Understand Submission:

    • Submission is not weakness; it’s trust in God’s sovereignty.
    • Even Jesus submitted to the Father’s will: “He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death” (Philippians 2:8, ESV).
    • Authority works best when we align with God’s design.

  3. Live by Kingdom Character:

    • Humility: Acknowledge your dependence on God.
    • Obedience: Follow God’s Word, even when it challenges you.
    • Faith: Trust in His authority and promises.
    • Purity: Walk in righteousness, reflecting Kingdom values.

Lessons from the Leper (Matthew 8:1-4)

  • The Miracle:

    • A leper approached Jesus, saying, “Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean.” Jesus responded, “I am willing,” and healed him.

  • The Instruction:

    • Jesus told the leper not to tell anyone but to show himself to the priest.
    • The leper disobeyed, proclaiming his healing publicly.

  • The Impact:

    • His disobedience disrupted Jesus’ ministry in that area.
    • Lesson: Obedience to God’s instructions is essential, even when His blessings excite us.

Understanding the Centurion’s Faith (Matthew 8:5-13)

  • The centurion’s servant was paralyzed, and he sought Jesus’ help.
  • Recognizing Jesus’ authority, the centurion said, “Only speak a word, and my servant will be healed.”
  • Key Insights from the Centurion:
    • Authority doesn’t require physical presence.
    • Jesus’ Word alone has power because of His divine authority.
    • Faith is recognizing who Jesus is and trusting His authority.

Practical Application: Living with Kingdom Authority

  1. Speak Life:

    • “Death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Proverbs 18:21).
    • Speak blessings, not curses, over yourself and others.
    • Example: Instead of criticizing, call out God’s purpose in others.

  2. Embrace the Process:

    • Miracles often happen in the process, not just the outcome.
    • Trials build faith: “Consider it pure joy... whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance” (James 1:2-3, NIV).

  3. Align with Kingdom Values:

    • Study the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) for practical Kingdom principles.
    • Live by humility, mercy, and peacemaking.

  4. Surrender Daily:

    • Surrender to Jesus as Lord and Savior.
    • Trust Him to guide and transform your life.

A Call to Action

  • Self-Reflection:

    • Are you seeking the Kingdom or just its miracles?
    • Is your life aligned with Kingdom character?

  • Steps to Take Today:

    • Commit to living by Kingdom principles.
    • Speak life over your situation and relationships.
    • Trust God’s authority in every area of your life.

Encouragement from Scripture

  • “I lift up my eyes to the hills—from where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:1-2, ESV).
  • “The kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power” (1 Corinthians 4:20, NIV).

When we embrace Kingdom authority, we unlock the blessings of living under God’s rule. Let us live with faith, obedience, and a heart for His Kingdom. Amen.