Introduction:
A. “Father” – associated with respect and authority
B. Conflict between authority and anarchy
C. We must not be conformed to this world (Rm. 12:2).
D. Without authority, society unravels.
E. Two views of authority:
1. Question. Resist. Despise.
2. Respect. Submit. Appreciate.
I. The Creator has the right to rule over His creation.
A. Isaiah 29:16
B. Psalm 100:3
C. Daniel 4:34
II. The Son has been given all authority.
A. Matthew 28:18
B. Acts 2:36; Ephesians 1:21
C. Ephesians 1:22-23
III. Christ directs us through His inspired word.
A. Jesus promised to send another Comforter (Jn. 14:16, 26; 16:13).
B. The Bible is God’s word (2 Pet. 1:20-21; 2 Tim. 3:16-17; 1 Cor. 14:37).
C. We can speak God’s word with authority (Tit. 2:15; 2 Tim. 4:1-2; 1 Pet. 4:11).
IV. God’s established authority:
A. In civil government (Rm. 13:1-5; Mt. 22:21; 1 Pet. 2:13-17; Acts 5:29)
B. In the home (Eph. 5:22-24, 25, 33; 1 Cor. 11:3; 1 Pet. 3:1-4; Eph. 6:1)
C. In the church (Col. 1:18; 1 Cor. 14:37, 34-35; 1 Tim. 2:11-12, 13-15; 5:17; 1 Th. 5:12-13; 1 Pet. 5:2-3; Heb. 13:17)
Conclusion:
A. Authority or anarchy?
B. Begins with acknowledgement of Jesus as Lord (Lk. 6:46; Ph. 2:10; Jn. 14:15).