YOU HAVE AUTHORITY: Walking Boldly in the Power of Luke 10:19

“Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you.”— Luke 10:19 (ESV)

Christians often talk about victory, freedom, and power in Christ.  But how many of us are truly walking in the spiritual authority that Jesus has given us?

In Luke Chapter 10, we see that Jesus sends out 72 disciples, two by two, to go ahead of him to every town and place he is about to go.  Returning from the mission, the 72 joyfully reported, "Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name."  Jesus responds with a powerful statement of authority.  Jesus said, "I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you."

What does this authority mean?

When you hear authority, I want you to think of a Police Officer.  A police officer has the authority to stop traffic, pull cars over, write tickets, and make arrests.  The police operate based on the authority given to them by the US government.  When you hear authority, I want you to think of Legal Rights or Official Permission. 

What does Jesus give us authority over?

Jesus specifically gives us the legal authority to trample on snakes and overcome ALL the power of the enemy.  These creatures symbolize danger, evil, or demonic forces, and Jesus affirms that those who walk in His name (RELATIONSHIP) have authority over ALL the works of evil.  The relationship is the key.

How do we exercise this authority? 

As disciples of Christ, we're not defenseless.  We are given authority to stand against spiritual forces through prayer, truth, and the power of the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 6:10-18).  We face temptations daily.  The devil still accuses us before God.  Fear and oppression continue to steal our peace but thank God we are not powerless. 

This authority is not earned but granted through our relationship with Christ.  This authority is rooted in the finished work on the cross.  This is where proclamations come in.  Some of us are good at Microsoft Word / PowerPoint.  Some of us are good at accounting / financial matters.  Some of us are good at gardening / DIY projects.  Brothers and Sisters, we can be good at making Proclamations! 

What is a Proclamation?

Proclamations are bold, faith-filled declarations of God's truth, spoken aloud over your life, family, home, and circumstances.  When you proclaim God's Word, you are activating your authority and aligning heaven with earth.

As you work to understand, apply, and memorize scripture in the bible study activity RHEMAin, seek ways to weaponize the Word of God in a faith-filled proclamation. 

Proclamations aren't empty affirmations.  They are swords in spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:17).  Speak them boldly.  Speak to them daily.  Speak to them when you feel weak, afraid, or attacked.  Watch as the power of God's Word breaks strongholds and brings peace, clarity, and victory.

Access our Proclamation Cheat Sheet in the Resources menu