May 24, 2015 | Bob Bartlett
Passage: Matthew 8:5-13
Faith Series – Under Authority
“Unleashing God’s Power” Matthew 8:5-13
Hebrews 11:7: “By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith”
Matthew 8:10 “I tell you the truth, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith.”
• Truth: Great faith comes from living under Spiritual authority.
Why (I) Live Under Authority:
Promotes Peace: God builds clear consensus under spiritual authority. 1Cor 14:32-33
Provides Protection: God confirms His will under spiritual authority. Colossians 1:16
Promise of Power: God uses spiritual authority to keep us in check – accountable. James 4:6
Keys to a Great Faith: (Centurion’s example)
1. Vs 8: “I do not deserve to have you come under my roof”
- He was humble before spiritual authority. Philippians 2:3-5 “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit but in humility consider others better than yourself…”
2. Vs 9: “For I myself am a man under authority”
- He was submissive to spiritual authority. 1 Peter 5:5 “young men in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you clothe yourselves with humility” • Submission’s bad rap: 1Corinthians 11:3
3. Vs 8: “But just say the word”
- He trusted in the spiritual authority of the Word. Hebrews 4:12 “For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
• No small thing! 2Peter 1:21;
If we live under the spiritual authority of God we will experience the power of God in our lives!