Keith Sharp | Mountain Home, Arkansas, USA
Several times I have heard brethren assert, “We do lots of things without Bible authority.” The inspired apostle Paul commands, “And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him” (Colossians 3:17). The phrase “in the name of” means “in recognition of the authority of” (W.E. Vine, An Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words. 3:100; cf. Acts 4:18). We must have authority from the Lord Jesus Christ for everything we say and do. The context of the verse does not limit the application of this universal principle. The authority of Jesus Christ applies in the home (Colossians 3:18-21), on the job (Colossians 3:22 – 4:1), in our community (Colossians 4:5-6), in government affairs (Romans 13:1-7), and in the church (Ephesians 1:22-23). We must recognize Jesus Christ as Lord of our lives and submit to His rule in every realm and relationship. He has all authority (Matthew 28:18). We must believe what He teaches (2 John 9), speak as He directs (1 Peter 4:11), and act as He demands (James 1:22). We must do everything He commands us to do (Matthew 28:18-20), follow His example in everything (Luke 6:40), and do only what He authorizes (2 John 9). Have you submitted your life to the Lord Jesus Christ?
