Some translators are shy.
“And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, ‘All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.” (Matthew 28:18) “But to as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God….” (John 1 12)
The dynamic Greek word, “Exousia,” means the “authority” that the Father gave to Jesus. Some translators use the word “right” when it refers to the Exousia Jesus gives to men. In both cases, it is Divine Authority. God given authority to those who “believe in His name.” Faith refuses to doubt God, no matter the depth of its fall. He is faith’s secure hope that children are forgiven. How we exercise this authority should be carefully considered.
Before some jump in with their rules telling us that this “right” can be taken away, let me speak to them forcefully. Jesus is our savior! If there is any honesty in us, we admit that we can’t save ourselves. New-bees and slow-learners often think they can get holy on their own. Spirits needing some eye-opening. Some will gather lots of failures, full of grief, before realizing the need for God’s grace. Self redemption won’t work. Jesus came to set the captive free. (Isaiah 61:1; Luke 4:18) They’ll see.
Those who have received Christ are given a Divine Right, the authority to become sons and daughters of the Most High. How we exercise this authority should be carefully considered. The son or daughter we become, as far as we know, is determined in the here and now. It is totally up to us the kind of son or daughter we will become.
Amazing changes can take place in this process of becoming. God is creating with his word that contains His judgements, warnings and promises. These words have the power to change the minds and hearts of those whom Jesus is saving from their sins.
“So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.” (Philippians 2:12-13)
Father, may these words be a powerful reminder to those empowered with “the right to become.” May they also remind us of the responsibility that comes with the authority. In Jesus’ name, we ask to become children that bring You pleasure.
His Family Table 