The authority of every believer is an incredible empowerment that the Lord grants to His followers. After the joyful return of the seventy-two disciples, who celebrated their victory over demons in Jesus’ name, Jesus offers a profound insight. Luke 10:18“Yes,” he told them, “I saw Satan fall from heaven like lightning! [1]This isn’t just a history of Satan’s expulsion. It’s a strong statement of Jesus’ victory and its importance for followers.
This also serves as a warning about pride. If Satan could fall, they too could fall into a similar trap.Their authority over demons was not a coincidence, but a sign of a cosmic truth: satan’s power is shattered, and his kingdom is fading.
This statement reassures the disciples—and us—that the spiritual battles we face are against a defeated enemy. Christ has already secured the ultimate victory. This perspective underscores the fundamental truth that all authority belongs to Jesus. Any power we exercise in His name originates from His supreme authority over darkness.
Power Over the Enemy
Jesus clearly grants authority to His disciples. Luke 10:19 “Look, I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy, and you can walk among snakes and scorpions and crush them.” Nothing will injure you.[2] The image of “treading on serpents and scorpions” symbolizes overcoming evil and dangerous forces. It’s not just about literal reptiles, but about spiritual enemies and the harmful influences they represent.
The phrase “all the power of the enemy” is broad, showing that no part of satan’s rule is beyond this delegated authority. Plus, the assurance that “nothing shall hurt you” speaks to divine protection during spiritual battles. This doesn’t promise immunity from all physical harm or life’s hardships, but rather protection from the enemy’s ultimate destructive power in their mission.
As believers, we can face spiritual challenges with confidence, knowing that God has given us the authority to succeed. It invites us to step into this truth, not with pride, but with humble confidence that Christ Himself has equipped us for victory.
Living in Delegated Authority
Jesus’ authority is to be used to advance His Kingdom, defeat darkness, bring healing, and share good news. The authority of a believer means understanding our role in influencing the world for God’s glory. We do this through prayer, speaking God’s truth, serving others, loving, and resisting evil.
When we face spiritual opposition, we can stand firm in Christ’s strength, actively demonstrating God’s authority. Although the disciples rejoiced over demons submitting, Jesus pointed out that our greatest joy is having our names written in heaven, proving that our security comes from God, not from our achievements. We are called to live confidently in Christ’s victory, empowered by His overcoming power.
To learn more about the authority of the believer, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/sent-out-2-x-2
[1-2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.