September 29
The Authority
Behind the Mission
Matthew 28:18
Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me."
Daily Steps
Having established the foundational disciplines of the Christian life (like Prayer, Day 260, and Joy, Day 272), the new believer must now understand the purpose for which they were saved: Mission. This verse provides the essential context for the Great Commission: the command to share the Gospel is backed by the complete, absolute authority of Jesus Christ.
The peace in this principle is found in secured backing:
The Assertion of Authority: Jesus makes a definitive, ultimate claim: All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. This reaffirms Christ’s Sovereignty (Day 219) and removes all fear regarding the opposition or challenges the believer might face (The Final Triumph, Day 227). No power, human or spiritual, can supersede the authority of the risen Christ.
The Foundation of Confidence: This absolute authority is the foundation of the believer’s confidence (The Confidence of Your Requests, Day 250) in their calling. When we live out the Legacy of Joy (Day 271) and speak the truth of the Gospel, we are doing so not in our own meager strength, but with the full backing of the Almighty King.
The Result is Boldness: Knowing that all authority is behind our efforts fuels profound boldness and courage (Day 236). It means that when we step out in faith (Day 254) to share the Good News, we are guaranteed success in God's eyes, regardless of the visible result, because our work is aligned with His supreme command.
Your peace is secured by Christ's authority. Embrace your Call to Mission today by moving forward in boldness, knowing that your work is done under the absolute, secured backing of Jesus, to whom all authority in heaven and on earth has been given.
Reflective Question
What specific fear (e.g., fear of rejection, fear of inadequate knowledge) is currently limiting your willingness to share your faith? How does the truth that All authority belongs to Jesus dismantle that fear and give you the confidence to speak?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I confess my tendency to fear people more than I fear You. I thank You that All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Lord Jesus Christ. I pray for the boldness and faith to step into my Call to Mission today. Secure my peace in the certainty that when I speak Your truth, I do so with Your supreme authority backing my every word. Amen.
