As believers, understanding the authority Jesus has given us can be both empowering and transformative. “I Give You Authority: Practicing the Authority Jesus Gave Us” by Charles H. Kraft is a profound exploration of this very concept. The book unveils how Christians can wield the spiritual authority granted by Christ to overcome personal and spiritual challenges. In this blog, we’ll dive into the book’s key teachings, examining how to apply this authority in our lives to make a real difference in our faith journey.
Understanding Spiritual Authority
The idea of spiritual authority is woven throughout the Bible, with verses such as Luke 10:19 emphasizing, “I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.” This authority is not a concept to be taken lightly, nor is it something reserved for a select few. Instead, it is a gift and a responsibility given to every follower of Christ.
Kraft explains that spiritual authority is essentially about aligning our will with God’s will, allowing His power to flow through us. When we understand and claim this authority, we can experience true freedom from fear, doubt, and even spiritual oppression. John 14:12 echoes this power, stating that “whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these.” This is the essence of what Kraft’s book seeks to teach: that we have the authority not only to face challenges but to overcome them in Jesus’ name.
The Nature of Jesus’ Authority
Kraft emphasizes that Jesus’ authority was not just something He wielded; it was intrinsic to His very nature. As believers, we are invited to participate in this authority, reflecting Christ’s power and love to the world. Several foundational aspects of this authority are worth noting:
1. Authority over Personal Weakness
- We are often held back by personal struggles—fear, doubt, and habits that hinder our relationship with God. By acknowledging Jesus’ authority over our lives, we can conquer these obstacles. Kraft advises readers to identify areas of weakness and to submit them to God, allowing His power to work within us.
2. Authority in Prayer and Intercession
- Effective prayer is more than mere words; it’s an exercise of spiritual authority. By praying in alignment with God’s will, we engage in powerful intercession that can change situations and even influence outcomes. Kraft teaches readers that prayer should be approached with confidence, believing that God hears and moves in response to our faith.
3. Authority over Evil Forces
- The book emphasizes that Jesus’ victory over evil empowers us to resist spiritual attacks. By claiming Christ’s authority, believers can stand firm against spiritual opposition, understanding that they are equipped to face any challenge. This is not about power in and of ourselves, but about exercising the power that comes from Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection.
Practical Steps to Embrace Spiritual Authority
Kraft doesn’t just talk about spiritual authority; he provides practical steps for believers to apply these principles in everyday life. Here’s how to begin embracing this authority in tangible ways:
1. Daily Acknowledgment of God’s Power
- Each morning, take time to acknowledge the authority of Jesus over your life. Pray for wisdom and strength to align your actions with His will, allowing His power to flow through you.
2. Engage in Scripture-Based Prayer
- When facing challenges, pray using scriptures that emphasize God’s authority. Verses like Philippians 4:13 (“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”) remind us that with God’s power, we can overcome any difficulty.
3. Practice Boldness in Faith
- Boldness is a key component of spiritual authority. Whether you’re stepping out to share your faith, praying for someone in need, or making difficult decisions, remember that you have been given authority to act in Christ’s name. Take action with courage, trusting in God’s promises.
4. Develop a Mindset of Victory
- Kraft emphasizes that believers should not operate from a place of defeat but from victory. This mindset is critical when dealing with setbacks and disappointments. By focusing on Jesus’ triumph over sin and death, you can face every situation with confidence, knowing that the battle is already won.
5. Surround Yourself with Faith-Building Community
- The Christian walk is not meant to be done alone. Surrounding yourself with other believers who understand and practice spiritual authority can strengthen your resolve and keep you accountable. As you grow together in faith, you’ll be able to support each other in practicing and exercising Christ’s authority.
Why Embracing Spiritual Authority Matters
As Christians, embracing our spiritual authority matters because it allows us to live a life of purpose, impacting not only ourselves but others around us. Kraft’s teachings inspire believers to go beyond a passive faith, encouraging them to be proactive in bringing God’s love and power into their lives and communities. Through this authority, we are better equipped to make a difference in a world that is in desperate need of hope and redemption.
Final Thoughts: Living a Life of Authority and Purpose
Charles Kraft’s “I Give You Authority” serves as a powerful reminder that the authority Jesus gives us is a gift meant to be practiced. It’s an invitation to live boldly, to confront challenges with confidence, and to make a tangible impact through our faith. As believers, we are called not only to believe but to act, using the authority given to us to bring God’s light to the darkest corners of our lives and our world.
Living in this authority doesn’t just transform our personal lives; it can transform families, communities, and nations. We are entrusted with the power to bring healing, hope, and change—reflecting God’s love and grace to a world that is waiting for redemption. Take the first step today by embracing this authority, letting Christ’s power work through you, and witnessing the incredible difference it makes.
“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
“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father.” — John 14:12
In walking with authority, remember that it is not our power but Christ’s, enabling us to fulfill His purposes with courage and confidence.