Frequently Asked Question #5

upgraded August 21, 2008

Frequently Asked Question #5

I read with interest your article on the church being a theocracy or democracy. It sounds like you have had some negative experiences with church boards and/or churches. I have experienced a few myself. It sounds to me like the issue is about authority. I would be curious to know how you view authority in the church from a biblical perspective. Obviously God has to work through fallible human beings who sometimes at our best make mistakes from which we must grow and learn. So how do you determine God’s will for a church when the Scriptures are not specific in a situation and there are good and godly people who honestly disagree. Can God work in this situation without condemnation toward the people? How do you tell the difference between "body politic" and the process of working through issues and discovering God’s will? How is authority established in the church and how is it to be used? I would be interested in your view and understanding of the Scriptures in these areas, because just as I have seen terrible abuses of authority and politics in a local church, I have also seen Spirit-filled people disagree on what the church should do at a certain point, but through time, prayer and discussion a solution was reached that became a great blessing to many. Thank you for your time!

Response

Due to our imperfect minds, one of the great pursuits of the Christian life is the goal of finding God's perfect will in our lives. This necessitates a complete change in our thinking process from the personal control of our own lives as directed by our rebellious selfish will prior to its crucifixion into the post-crucifixion process where we are constantly searching for and finding God's perfect will. We move from the master mentality of our own selfish will into the servant mentality of seeking God's will. We move from being our own God while serving ourselves into having Adonai Elohiym as our God and attempting to serve Him in an increasing measure. It is impossible to have a master mentality where you have set yourself up as God as you pursue your own agenda while simultaneously having a servant mentality where you are seeking only the will of the Father. You either have the selfish willed master mentality, or you have the servant mentality. Lucifer was the first creation with the "I am God, the Master and Authority" mentality. He was trying to usurp the position of the Father, the Master, and the Authority, who is God. Whoever attempts to set himself up as Master and Authority is following the very same path with the exact same desire as Lucifer.

Isaiah 14:13-14 (NIV) You said in your heart, "I will ascend to heaven; I will raise my throne above the stars of God; I will sit enthroned on the mount of assembly, on the utmost heights of the sacred mountain. 14 I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High."

The Body of Christ is made up of SERVANTS seeking the will of God. If you are not a SERVANT, you are not in the Body of Christ! If you have set yourself up as an Authority or Master in an attempt to control others in the Body of Christ, you are attempting to steal God's position! You have the same desire as Lucifer and the Anti-Christ!

Matthew 20:25-28 (NIV) Jesus called them together and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave- just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many."

Mark 10:42-45 (NIV) Jesus called them together and said, "You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many."

Luke 22:25-27 (NIV) Jesus said to them, "The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves. For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? But I am among you as one who serves.

Matthew 23:11-12 (NIV) The greatest among you will be your servant. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.

Mark 9:35 (NIV) Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, "If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all."

John 13:1-17 (NIV) It was just before the Passover Feast. Jesus knew that the time had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love. 2 The evening meal was being served, and the devil had already prompted Judas Iscariot, son of Simon, to betray Jesus. 3 Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; 4 so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. 5 After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples' feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him. 6 He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, "Lord, are you going to wash my feet?" 7 Jesus replied, "You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand." 8 "No," said Peter, "you shall never wash my feet." Jesus answered, "Unless I wash you, you have no part with me." 9 "Then, Lord," Simon Peter replied, "not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!" 10 Jesus answered, "A person who has had a bath needs only to wash his feet; his whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you." 11 For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean. 12 When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. "Do you understand what I have done for you?" he asked them. 13 "You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord,' and rightly so, for that is what I am. 14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. 15 I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. 16 I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.

authority 1a (1): a citation (as from a book or file) used in defense or support (2): the source from which the citation is drawn b (1): a conclusive statement or set of statements (as an official decision of a court) (2): a decision taken as a precedent (3): TESTIMONY c: an individual cited or appealed to as an expert 2 a: power to influence or command thought, opinion, or behavior b: freedom granted by one in authority: RIGHT 3 a: persons in command; specif: GOVERNMENT b: a governmental agency or corporation to administer revenue-producing public enterprise <the transit ~ > 4 a: GROUNDS, WARRANT <had excellent ~ for his strange actions> b: convincing force: WEIGHT <his strong tenor lent ~ to the performance> syn see INFLUENCE, POWER – Webster’s Dictionary

authoritarian 1: of, relating to, or favoring blind submission to authority <had ~ parents> 2: of, relating to, or favoring a concentration of power in a leader or an elite not constitutionally responsible to the people – Webster’s Dictionary

authoritative 1 a: having or proceeding from authority; OFFICIAL < ~ church doctrine> b: entitled to credit or acceptance: CONCLUSIVE <a most ~ literary critique> 2: DICTATORIAL, PEREMPTORY – Webster’s Dictionary

power 1 a: possession of control, authority, or influence over others b: one having such power; specif: a sovereign state c: a controlling group: ESTABLISHMENT - often used in the phrase the powers that be d archaic: a force of armed men e chiefly dial: a large number or quantity 2 a (1): ability to act or produce an effect (2): ability to get extra-based hits (3): capacity for being acted upon or undergoing an effect b: legal or official authority, capacity, or right 3 a : physical might b: mental or moral efficacy c: political control or influence 4 pl: an order of angels - see CELESTIAL HIERARCHY 5 a: the number of times as indicated by an exponent that a number occurs as a factor in a product; also: the product itself b: CARDINAL NUMBER 2 6 a : a source or means of supplying energy; esp: ELECTRICITY b: MOTIVE POWER c: the time rate at which work is done or energy emitted or transferred 7: MAGNIFICATION 2b 8: SCOPE, COMPREHENSIVENESS 9: the probability of rejecting the null hypothesis in a statistical test when a particular alternative hypothesis happens to be true

syn POWER, AUTHORITY, JURISDICTION, CONTROL, COMMAND, SWAY, DOMINION mean the right to govern or rule or determine, POWER implies possession of ability to wield force, permissive authority, or substantial influence; AUTHORITY implies the granting of power for a specific purpose within specified limits; JURISDICTION applies to official power exercised within prescribed limits: CONTROL stresses the power to direct and restrain; COMMAND implies the power to make arbitrary decisions and compel obedience; SWAY suggest the extent or scope of exercised power or influence; DOMINION stresses sovereign power or supreme authority;

syn POWER FORCE, ENERGY, STRENGTH, MIGHT mean the ability to exert effort. POWER may imply latent or exerted physical, mental or spiritual ability to act or be acted upon; FORCE implies the actual effective exercise of power; ENERGY applies to power expended or capable of being transformed into work; STRENGTH applies to the quality or property of a person or thing that makes possible the exertion of force or the withstanding of strain, pressure, or attack; MIGHT implies great or overwhelming power or strength – Webster’s Dictionary

influence 1 a: an ethereal fluid held to flow from the stars and to affect the actions of humans b: an emanation of occult power held to derive from stars 2: an emanation of spiritual or moral force 3 a: the act or power of producing an effect without apparent exertion of force or direct exercise of command b : corrupt interference with authority for personal gain 4: the power or capacity of causing an effect in indirect or intangible ways: SWAY 5: one that exerts influence

syn INFLUENCE, AUTHORITY, PRESTIGE, WEIGHT, CREDIT mean power exerted over the minds or behavior of others; INFLUENCE may apply to a force exercised and received consciously or unconsciously; AUTHORITY implies the power of winning devotion or allegiance or of compelling acceptance and belief; PRESTIGE implies the ascendance given by conspicuous excellence or reputation for superiority; WEIGHT implies measurable or decisive influence in determining acts or choices; CREDIT suggests influence that arises from proven merit or favorable reputation. – Webster’s Dictionary

The Greek word "exousia" occurs 104 times in 93 verses in the original Greek writings of the New Testament and is translated into the English words as follows:

authority (61)	authorities (9)	power (11)	right (9)
control (2)	charge (2)	in charge (1)	exercise of freedom (1)
ability (1)	disposal (1)	dominion (1)	jurisdiction (1)
kingdom (1)	must (1)	reigns (1)	rights (1)

The Strong’s Greek Dictionary definition for "exousia" is as follows:

1849. exousia, ex-oo-see'-ah; from G1832 (in the sense of ability); privilege, i.e. (subj.) force, capacity, competency, freedom, or (obj.) mastery (concr. magistrate, superhuman, potentate, token of control), delegated influence:--authority, jurisdiction, liberty, power, right, strength.

The complete list of New Testament Scriptures in which the word "exousia" occurs in the original Greek text is listed below. I have included the King James Version on some occasions for clarification. As we must interpret the Word of God by the Word of God, by reviewing the complete use of the word "exousia," we can assess the spectrum and range as well as the nuances of the word. Whatever thought processes the word "exousia" generated and communicated in the Greek language two thousand years ago, it generated and communicated consistently each and every time it was used:

Matthew 7:29 (NIV) because he taught as one who had authority (exousia), and not as their teachers of the law.

Matthew 8:9 (NIV) For I myself am a man under authority (exousia), with soldiers under me. I tell this one, 'Go,' and he goes; and that one, 'Come,' and he comes. I say to my servant, 'Do this,' and he does it."

Matthew 9:6 (NIV) But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority (exousia) on earth to forgive sins. . . ." Then he said to the paralytic, "Get up, take your mat and go home."

Matthew 9:8 (NIV) When the crowd saw this, they were filled with awe; and they praised God, who had given such authority (exousia) to men.

Matthew 10:1 (NIV) He called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority (exousia) to drive out evil spirits and to heal every disease and sickness.

Matthew 21:23-24 (NIV) Jesus entered the temple courts, and, while he was teaching, the chief priests and the elders of the people came to him. "By what authority (exousia) are you doing these things?" they asked. "And who gave you this authority (exousia)?" 24 Jesus replied, "I will also ask you one question. If you answer me, I will tell you by what authority (exousia) I am doing these things.

Matthew 21:27 (NIV) So they answered Jesus, "We don't know." Then he said, "Neither will I tell you by what authority (exousia) I am doing these things.

Matthew 28:18 (NIV) Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority (exousia) in heaven and on earth has been given to me.

Mark 1:22 (NIV) The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority (exousia), not as the teachers of the law.

Mark 1:27 (NIV) The people were all so amazed that they asked each other, "What is this? A new teaching--and with authority (exousia)! He even gives orders to evil spirits and they obey him."

Mark 2:10 (NIV) But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority (exousia) on earth to forgive sins . . . ." He said to the paralytic,

Mark 3:15 (NIV) and to have authority (exousia) to drive out demons.

Mark 6:7 (NIV) Calling the Twelve to him, he sent them out two by two and gave them authority (exousia) over evil spirits.

Mark 11:28-29 (NIV) "By what authority (exousia) are you doing these things?" they asked. "And who gave you authority (exousia) to do this?" 29 Jesus replied, "I will ask you one question. Answer me, and I will tell you by what authority (exousia) I am doing these things.

Mark 11:33 (NIV) So they answered Jesus, "We don't know." Jesus said, "Neither will I tell you by what authority (exousia) I am doing these things."

Mark 13:34 (NIV) It's like a man going away: He leaves his house and puts his servants in charge (exousia), each with his assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch.

Mark 13:34 (KJV) For the Son of Man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority (exousia) to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch.

Luke 4:6 (NIV) And he said to him, "I will give you all their authority (exousia) and splendor, for it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to.

Luke 4:32 (NIV) They were amazed at his teaching, because his message had authority (exousia).

Luke 4:36 (NIV) All the people were amazed and said to each other, "What is this teaching? With authority (exousia) and power he gives orders to evil spirits and they come out!"

Luke 5:24 (NIV) But that you may know that the Son of= Man has authority (exousia) on earth to forgive sins. . . ." He said to the paralyzed man, "I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home."

Luke 7:8 (NIV) For I myself am a man under authority (exousia), with soldiers under me. I tell this one, 'Go,' and he goes; and that one, 'Come,' and he comes. I say to my servant, 'Do this,' and he does it."

Luke 9:1 (NIV) When Jesus had called the Twelve together, he gave them power and authority (exousia) to drive out all demons and to cure diseases,

Luke 10:19 (NIV) I have given you authority (exousia) to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.

Luke 12:5 (NIV) But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after the killing of the body, has power (exousia) to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him.

Luke 12:11 (NIV) "When you are brought before synagogues, rulers and authorities (exousia), do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say,

Luke 19:17 (NIV) "'Well done, my good servant!' his master replied. 'Because you have been trustworthy in a very small matter, take charge (exousia) of ten cities.'

Luke 19:17 (KJV) And he said unto him, Well, thou good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority (exousia) over ten cities.

Luke 20:2 (NIV) "Tell us by what authority (exousia) you are doing these things," they said. "Who gave you this authority (exousia)?"

Luke 20:8 (NIV) Jesus said, "Neither will I tell you by what authority (exousia) I am doing these things."

Luke 20:20 (NIV) Keeping a close watch on him, they sent spies, who pretended to be honest. They hoped to catch Jesus in something he said so that they might hand him over to the power and authority (exousia) of the governor.

Luke 22:53 (NIV) Every day I was with you in the temple courts, and you did not lay a hand on me. But this is your hour--when darkness reigns (exousia)."

Luke 22:53 (KJV) When I was daily with you in the temple, ye stretched forth no hands against me: but this is your hour, and the power (exousia) of darkness.

Luke 23:7 (NIV) When he learned that Jesus was under Herod's jurisdiction (exousia), he sent him to Herod, who was also in Jerusalem at that time.

John 1:12 (NIV) Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right (exousia) to become children of God--

John 1:12 (KJV) But as many as received him, to them gave he power (exousia) to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

John 5:27 (NIV) And he has given him authority (exousia) to judge because he is the Son of Man.

John 10:18 (NIV) No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority (exousia) to lay it down and authority (exousia) to take it up again. This command I received from my Father."

John 17:2 (NIV) For you granted him authority (exousia) over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him.

John 19:10 (NIV) "Do you refuse to speak to me?" Pilate said. "Don't you realize I have power (exousia) either to free you or to crucify you?"

John 19:11 (NIV) Jesus answered, "You would have no power (exousia) over me if it were not given to you from above. Therefore the one who handed me over to you is guilty of a greater sin."

Acts 1:7 (NIV) He said to them: "It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority (exousia).

Acts 5:4 (NIV) Didn't it belong to you before it was sold? And after it was sold, wasn't the money at your disposal (exousia)? What made you think of doing such a thing? You have not lied to men but to God."

Acts 5:4 (KJV) Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? And after it was sold, was it not in thine own power (exousia)? Why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? Thou has not lied unto men, but unto God.

Acts 8:19 (NIV) and sa= id, "Give me also this ability (exousia) so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit."

Acts 8:19 (KJV) Saying, Give me also this power (exousia), that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost.

Acts 9:14 (NIV) And he has come here with authority (exousia) from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name."

Acts 26:10 (NIV) And that is just what I did in Jerusalem. On the authority (exousia) of the chief priests I put many of the saints in prison, and when they were put to death, I cast my vote against them.

Acts 26:12 (NIV) "On one of these journeys I was going to Damascus with the authority (exousia) and commission of the chief priests.

Acts 26:18 (NIV) to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power (exousia) of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.'

Romans 9:21 (NIV) Does not the potter have the right (exousia) to make out of the same lump of clay some pottery for noble purposes and some for common use?

Romans 9:21 (KJV) Hath not the potter power (exousia) over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour?

Romans 13:1-3 (NIV) Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities (exousia), for there is no authority (exousia) except that which God has established. The authorities (exousia) that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, he who rebels against the authority (exousia) is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority (exousia)? Then do what is right and he will commend you.

1 Corinthians 7:37 (NIV) But the man who has settled the matter in his own mind, who is under no compulsion but has control (exousia) over his own will, and who has made up his mind not to marry the virgin--this man also does the right thing.

1 Corinthians 7:37 (KJV) Nevertheless he that standeth stedfast in his heart, having no necessity, but hath power (exousia) over his own will, and hath so decreed in his heart that he will keep his virgin, doeth well.

1 Corinthians 8:9 (NIV) Be careful, however, that the exercise (exousia) of your freedom does not become a stumbling block to the weak.

1 Corinthians 8:9 (KJV) But take heed lest by any means this liberty (exousia) of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak.

1 Corinthians 9:4 (NIV) Don't we have the right (exousia) to food and drink?

1 Corinthians 9:4 (KJV) Have we not power (exousia) to eat and to drink?

1 Corinthians 9:5 (NIV) Don't we have the right (exousia) to take a believing wife along with us, as do the other apostles and the Lord's brothers and Cephas ?

1 Corinthians 9:5 (KJV) Have we not power (exousia) to lead about a sister, a wife, as well as other apostles, and as the brethren of the Lord, and Cephas?

1 Corinthians 9:6 (NIV) Or is it only I and Barnabas who must (exousia) work for a living?

1 Corinthians 9:6 (KJV) Or I only and Barnabas, have not we power (exousia) to forbear working?

1 Corinthians 9:12 (NIV) If others have this right (exousia) of support from you, shouldn't we have it all the more? But we did not use this right (exousia). On the contrary, we put up with anything rather than hinder the gospel of Christ.

1 Corinthians 9:12 (KJV) If others be partakers of this power (exousia) over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this power (exousia); but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ.

1 Corinthians 9:18 (NIV) What then is my reward? Just this: that in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, and so not make use of my rights (exousia) in preaching it.

1 Corinthians 9:18 (KJV) What is my reward then? Verily that, when I preach the gospel, I may make the gospel of Christ without charge, that I abuse not my power (exousia) in the gospel.

1 Corinthians 11:10 (NIV) For this reason, and because of the angels, the woman ought to have a sign of authority (exousia) on her head.

1 Corinthians 15:24 (NIV) Then the end will come, when he hands over the kingdom to God the Father after he has destroyed all dominion, authority (exousia) and power.

2 Corinthians 10:8 (NIV) For even if I boast somewhat freely about the authority (exousia) the Lord gave us for building you up rather than pulling you down, I will not be ashamed of it.

2 Corinthians 13:10 (NIV) This is why I write these things when I am absent, that when I come I may not have to be harsh in my use of authority (exousia)--the authority (exousia) the Lord gave me for building you up, not for tearing you down.

Ephesians 1:21 (NIV) far above all rule and authority (exousia), power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.

Ephesians 2:2 (NIV) in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom (exousia) of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient.

Ephesians 2:2 (KJV) Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power (exousia) of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:

Ephesians 3:10 (NIV) His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities (exousia) in the heavenly realms,

Ephesians 6:12 (NIV) For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities (exousia), against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

Colossians 1:13 (NIV) For he has rescued us from the dominion (exousia) of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves,

Colossians 1:13 (KJV) Who hath delivered us from the power (exousia) of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear son:

Colossians 1:16 (NIV) For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities (exousia); all things were created by him and for him.

Colossians 2:10 (NIV) and you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and authority (exousia).

Colossians 2:15 (NIV) And having disarmed the powers and authorities (exousia), he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.

2 Thessalonians 3:9 (NIV) We did this, not because we do not have the right (exousia) to such help, but in order to make ourselves a model for you to follow.

2 Thessalonians 3:9 (KJV) Not because we have not power (exousia), but to make ourselves and ensample unto you to follow us.

Titus 3:1 (NIV) Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities (exousia), to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good,

Hebrews 13:10 (NIV) We have an altar from which those who minister at the tabernacle have no right (exousia) to eat.

1 Peter 3:22 (NIV) who has gone into heaven and is at God's right hand--with angels, authorities (exousia) and powers in submission to him.

Jude 1:25 (NIV) to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority (exousia), through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.

Revelation 2:26-27 (NIV) To him who overcomes and does my will to the end, I will give authority (exousia) over the nations-- 27 'He will rule them with an iron scepter; he will dash them to pieces like pottery' -- just as I have received authority (exousia) from my Father.

Revelation 6:8 (NIV) I looked, and there before me was a pale horse! Its rider was named Death, and Hades was following close behind him. They were given power (exousia) over a fourth of the earth to kill by sword, famine and plague, and by the wild beasts of the earth.

Revelation 9:3 (NIV) And out of the smoke locusts came down upon the earth and were given power (exousia) like that of scorpions of the earth.

Revelation 9:10 (NIV) They had tails and stings like scorpions, and in their tails they had power (exousia) to torment people for five months.

Revelation 9:19 (NIV) The power (exousia) of the horses was in their mouths and in their tails; for their tails were like snakes, having heads with which they inflict injury.

Revelation 11:6 (NIV) These men have power (exousia) to shut up the sky so that it will not rain during the time they are prophesying; and they have power (exousia) to turn the waters into blood and to strike the earth with every kind of plague as often as they want.

Revelation 12:10 (NIV) Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: "Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority (exousia) of his Christ. For the accuser of our brothers, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down.

Revelation 13:2 (NIV) The beast I saw resembled a leopard, but had feet like those of a bear and a mouth like that of a lion. The dragon gave the beast his power and his throne and great authority (exousia).

Revelation 13:4-5 (NIV) Men worshiped the dragon because he had given authority (exousia) to the beast, and they also worshiped the beast and asked, "Who is like the beast? Who can make war against him?" 5 The beast was given a mouth to utter proud words and blasphemies and to exercise his authority (exousia) for forty-two months.

Revelation 13:7 (NIV) He was given power to make war = against the saints and to conquer them. And he was given authority (exousia) over every tribe, people, language and nation.

Revelation 13:12 (NIV) He exercised all the authority (exousia) of the first beast on his behalf, and made the earth and its inhabitants worship the first beast, whose fatal wound had been healed.

Revelation 14:18 (NIV) Still another angel, who had charge (exousia) of the fire, came from the altar and called in a loud voice to him who had the sharp sickle, "Take your sharp sickle and gather the clusters of grapes from the earth's vine, because its grapes are ripe."

Revelation 14:18 (KJV) And another angel came out from the altar, which had power (exousia) over fire; and cried with a loud cry to him that had the sharp sickle, saying, Thrust in thy sharp sickle, and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth; for her grapes are fully ripe.

Revelation 16:9 (NIV) They were seared by the intense heat and they cursed the name of God, who had control (exousia) over these plagues, but they refused to repent and glorify him.

Revelation 16:9 (KJV) And men were scorched with great heat, and blasphemed the name of God, which hath power (exousia) over these plagues: and they repented not to give him glory.

Revelation 17:12-13 (NIV) "The ten horns you saw are ten kings who have not yet received a kingdom, but who for one hour will receive authority (exousia) as kings along with the beast. 13 They have one purpose and will give their power and authority (exousia) to the beast.

Revelation 18:1 (NIV) After this I saw another angel coming down from heaven. He had great authority (exousia), and the earth was illuminated by his splendor.

Revelation 20:6 (NIV) Blessed and holy are those who have part in the first resurrection. The second death has no power (exousia) over them, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with him for a thousand years.

Revelation 22:14 (NIV) "Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right (exousia) to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city.

The English word "authority" and "authorities," occurs 89 times in 81 verses in the NIV New Testament, and is translated from the Greek words as follows:

2026 - G1849 exousia (68)

870 - G758 archon (2)

2980 - G2715 katexousiazo (2)

3262 - G2963 kuriotes (2)

3259 - G2961 kurieuo (1)

5667 - G5247 hyperoche (1)

883 - G831 authenteo (1)

2198 - G2003 epitage (1)

3232 - G2937 ktisis (1)

2027 - G1850 exousiazo (1)

NIG – Not in Greek (9)-the word "authority" was placed where there was no corresponding word in the original Greek text

The word "authority" and "authorities" used in the NIV New Testament can be separated into the following categories:

    1. The Body of Christ’s authority

    2. The Body of Christ’s future authority

    3. Organized Religion’s authority

    4. God’s authority

    5. Jesus’ authority

    6. The Law’s authority

    7. Angelic authority

    8. Governmental authority

    9. The husband’s authority

10. The Centurion’s authority

The Body of Christ’s authority

(The Holy Word of God reflects that we are authorized to: drive out evil spirits, heal every disease and sickness, trample on snakes and scorpions, overcome all the power of the enemy, build up the Body of Christ, and encourage and rebuke. No one but Jesus is given the authority to control the Body of Christ.) Those in Judeo-Christian Organized Religion who claim authority need to prove their claim on the evil spirits, and disease.

Matthew 10:1 (NIV) He called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority (exousia) to drive out evil spirits and to heal every disease and sickness.

Mark 3:15 (NIV) and to have authority (exousia) to drive out demons.

Mark 6:7 (NIV) Calling the Twelve to him, he sent them out two by two and gave them authority (exousia) over evil spirits.

Luke 9:1 (NIV) When Jesus had called the Twelve together, he gave them power and authority (exousia) to drive out all demons and to cure diseases,

Luke 10:19 (NIV) I have given you authority (exousia) to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.

2 Corinthians 10:8 (NIV) For even if I boast somewhat freely about the authority (exousia) the Lord gave us for building you up rather than pulling you down, I will not be ashamed of it.

2 Corinthians 13:10 (NIV) This is why I write these things when I am absent, that when I come I may not have to be harsh in my use of authority (exousia)--the authority (exousia) the Lord gave me for building you up, not for tearing you down.

Titus 2:15 (NIV) These, then, are the things you should teach. Encourage and rebuke with all authority (epitage). Do not let anyone despise you.

Titus 2:15 (HG) tauta:G5023 . laleo:G2980 . parakaleo:G3870 . elegcho:G1651 . pas:G3956 epitage:G2003 . medeis:G3367 medeis:G3367 periphroneo:G4065 .

2003. epitage, ep-ee-tag-ay'; from G2004; an injunction or decree; by impl. authoritativeness:--authority, commandment.

The word authority is not in Hebrews 13:17 of the original Greek. A careful study of the original Greek text presents the concept of considering their teaching as relates to the Holy Word of God. Submission to each other in the Body of Christ is taught throughout the New Testament, but autocratic submission to an earthly spiritual leader is taught against in Matthew 23:1-12. Matthew 23:1-12 is reviewed immediately following the review of Hebrews 13:17.

Hebrews 13:17 (NIV) Obey your leaders and submit to their authority (NIG). They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you.

Hebrews 13:17 (KJV) Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

Hebrews 13:17 (HG) peitho:G3982 . . . . hegeomai:G2233 . . . hupeiko:G5226 humon:G5216 . . agrupneo:G69 . humon:G5216 psuche:G5590 . . . . apodidomi:G591 logos:G3056 . . . poieo:G4160 . . chara:G5479 . . . stenazo:G4727 . . . alusiteles:G255 . .

3982. peitho, pi'-tho; a prim. verb; to convince (by argument, true or false); by anal. to pacify or conciliate (by other fair means); reflex. or pass. to assent (to evidence or authority), to rely (by inward certainty):--agree, assure, believe, have confidence, be (wax) content, make friend, obey, persuade, trust, yield.

2233. hegeomai, hayg-eh'-om-ahee; mid. of a (presumed) strengthened form of G71; to lead, i.e. command (with official authority); fig. to deem, i.e. consider:--account, (be) chief, count, esteem, governor, judge, have the rule over, suppose, think.

5226. hupeiko, hoop-i'-ko; from G5259 and eiko (to yield, be "weak"); to surrender:--submit self.

5216. humon, hoo-mone'; gen. of G5210; of (from or concerning) you:--ye, you, your (own, -selves).

69. agrupneo, ag-roop-neh'-o; ultimately from G1 (as neg. particle) and G5258; to be sleepless, i.e. keep awake:--watch.

5216. humon, hoo-mone'; gen. of G5210; of (from or concerning) you:--ye, you, your (own, -selves).

5590. psuche, psoo-khay'; from G5594; breath, i.e. (by impl.) spirit, abstr. or concr. (the animal sentient principle only; thus distinguished on the one hand from G4151, which is the rational and immortal soul; and on the other from G2222, which is mere vitality, even of plants: these terms thus exactly correspond respectively to the Heb. H5315, H7307 and H2416):--heart (+ -ily), life, mind, soul, + us, + you.

591. apodidomi, ap-od-eed'-o-mee; from G575 and G1325; to give away, i.e. up, over, back, etc. (in various applications):--deliver (again), give (again), (re-) pay (-ment be made), perform, recompense, render, requite, restore, reward, sell, yield,

3056. logos, log'-os; from G3004; something said (including the thought); by impl. a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extens. a computation; spec. (with the art. in John) the Divine Expression (i.e. Christ):--account, cause, communication, X concerning, doctrine, fame, X have to do, intent, matter, mouth, preaching, question, reason, + reckon, remove, say (-ing), shew, X speaker, speech, talk, thing, + none of these things move me, tidings, treatise, utterance, word, work.

4160. poieo, poy-eh'-o; appar. a prol. from of an obsol. prim.; to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct):--abide, + agree, appoint, X avenge, + band together, be, bear, + bewray, bring (forth), cast out, cause, commit, + content, continue, deal, + without any delay, (would) do (-ing), execute, exercise, fulfil, gain, give, have, hold, X journeying, keep, + lay wait, + lighten the ship, make, X mean, + none of these things move me, observe, ordain, perform, provide, + have purged, purpose, put, + raising up, X secure, shew, X shoot out, spend, take, tarry, + transgress the law, work, yield. Comp. G4238.

5479. chara, khar-ah'; from G5463; cheerfulness, i.e. calm delight:--gladness, X greatly, (X be exceeding) joy (-ful, -fully, -fulness, -ous).

4727. stenazo, sten-ad'-zo; from G4728; to make (intrans. be) in straits, i.e. (by impl.) to sigh, murmur, pray inaudibly:--with grief, groan, grudge, sigh.

255. alusiteles, al-oo-sit-el-ace'; from G1 (as a neg. particle) and the base of G3081; gainless, i.e. (by impl.) pernicious:--

The Holy Word of God in Matthew 23:3 directs the Body of Christ to consider the biddings as relates to the Holy Word of God, but clearly directs the Body of Christ not to subordinate to an autocratic leader.

Matthew 23:1-12 (KJV) Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples, 2 Saying, The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat: 3 All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not. 4 For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers. 5 But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments, 6 And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues, 7 And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi. 8 But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren. 9 And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven. 10 Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ. 11 But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. 12 And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.

Matthew 23:3 (HG) pas:G3956 oun:G3767 hosos:G3745 - an:G302 . epo:G2036 . tereo:G5083 . tereo:G5083 . poieo:G4160 . poieo:G4160 . . kata:G2596 . ergon:G2041 . . lego:G3004 . poieo:G4160 .

3956. pas, pas; includ. all the forms of declension; appar. a prim. word; all, any, every, the whole:--all (manner of, means) alway (-s), any (one), X daily, + ever, every (one, way), as many as, + no (-thing), X throughly, whatsoever, whole, whosoever.

3767. oun, oon; appar. a prim. word; (adv.) certainly, or (conj.) accordingly:--and (so, truly), but, now (then), so (likewise then), then, therefore, verily, wherefore.

3745. hosos, hos'-os; by redupl. from G3739; as (much, great, long, etc.) as:--all (that), as (long, many, much) (as), how great (many, much), [in-] asmuch as, so many as, that (ever), the more, those things, what (great, -soever), wheresoever, wherewithsoever, which, X while, who (-soever).

302. an, an; a prim. particle, denoting a supposition, wish, possibility or uncertainty:--[what-, where-, whither-, who-]soever. Usually unexpressed except by the subjunctive or potential mood. Also contr. for G1437.

2036. epo, ep'-o; a prim. verb (used only in the def. past tense, the others being borrowed from G2046, G4483 and G5346); to speak or say (by word or writing):--answer, bid, bring word, call, command, grant, say (on), speak, tell. Comp. G3004.

5083. tereo, tay-reh'-o; from teros (a watch; perh. akin to G2334); to guard (from loss or injury, prop. by keeping the eye upon; and thus differing from G5442, which is prop. to prevent escaping; and from G2892, which implies a fortress or full military lines of apparatus), i.e. to note (a prophecy; fig. to fulfil a command); by impl. to detain (in custody; fig. to maintain); by extens. to withhold (for personal ends; fig. to keep unmarried):--hold fast, keep (-er), (ob-, pre-, re) serve, watch.

2596. kata, kat-ah'; a prim. particle; (prep.) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case [gen. dat. or acc.] with which it is joined):--about, according as (to), after, against, (when they were) X alone, among, and, X apart, (even, like) as (concerning, pertaining to, touching), X aside, at, before, beyond, by, to the charge of, [charita-] bly, concerning, + covered, [dai-] ly, down, every, (+ far more) exceeding, X more excellent, for, from . . . to, godly, in (-asmuch, divers, every, -to, respect of), . . . by, after the manner of, + by any means, beyond (out of) measure, X mightily, more, X natural, of (up-) on (X part), out (of every), over against, (+ your) X own, + particularly, so, through (-oughout, -oughout every), thus, (un-) to (-gether, -ward), X uttermost, where (-by), with. In composition it retains many of these applications, and frequently denotes opposition, distribution or intensity.

2041. ergon, er'-gon; from a prim. (but obsol.) ergo (to work); toil (as an effort or occupation); by impl. an act:--deed, doing, labour, work.

3004. lego, leg'-o; a prim. verb; prop. to "lay" forth, i.e. (fig.) relate (in words [usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas G2036 and G5346 generally refer to an individual expression or speech respectively; while G4483 is prop. to break silence merely, and G2980 means an extended or random harangue]); by impl. to mean:--ask, bid, boast, call, describe, give out, name, put forth, say (-ing, on), shew, speak, tell, utter.

Body of Christ’s Future Authority

Revelation 2:26 (NIV) To him who overcomes and does my will to the end, I will give authority (exousia) over the nations—

Revelation 20:4 (NIV) I saw thrones on which were seated those who had been given authority (NIG) to judge. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded because of their testimony for Jesus and because of the word of God. They had not worshiped the beast or his image and had not received his mark on their foreheads or their hands. They came to life and reigned with Christ a thousand years.

Revelation 20:4 (KJV) And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.

Revelation 20:4 (HG) . . eido:G1492 thronos:G2362 . . kathizo:G2523 . . . krima:G2917 . didomi:G1325 . . . . . . psuche:G5590 . . . . pelekizo:G3990 . . marturia:G3141 . iesous:G2424 . . . logos:G3056 . theos:G2316 . hostis:G3748 . . proskuneo:G4352 . therion:G2342 oute:G3777 . eikon:G1504 kai:G2532 - ou:G3756 . lambano:G2983 . charagma:G5480 . . metopon:G3359 kai:G2532 . . cheir:G5495 . . zao:G2198 . basileuo:G936 . christos:G5547 . chilioi:G5507 etos:G2094

1492. eido, i'-do; a prim. verb; used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equiv. G3700 and G3708; prop. to see (lit. or fig.); by impl. (in the perf. only) to know:--be aware, behold, X can (+ not tell), consider, (have) known (-ledge), look (on), perceive, see, be sure, tell, understand, wist, wot. Comp. G3700.

2362. thronos, thron'-os; from thrao (to sit); a stately seat ("throne"); by impl. power or (concr.) a potentate:--seat, throne.

2523. kathizo, kath-id'-zo; another (act.) form for G2516; to seat down, i.e. set (fig. appoint); intrans. to sit (down); fig. to settle (hover, dwell):--continue, set, sit (down), tarry.

2917. krima, kree'-mah; from G2919; a decision (the function or the effect, for or against ["crime"]):--avenge, condemned, condemnation, damnation, + go to law, judgment.

1325. didomi, did'-o-mee; a prol. form of a prim. verb (which is used as an altern. in most of the tenses); to give (used in a very wide application, prop. or by impl. lit. or fig.; greatly modified by the connection):--adventure, bestow, bring forth, commit, deliver (up), give, grant, hinder, make, minister, number, offer, have power, put, receive, set, shew, smite (+ with the hand), strike (+ with the palm of the hand), suffer, take, utter, yield.

3990. pelekizo, pel-ek-id'-zo; from a der. of G4141 (mean. an axe); to chop off (the head), i.e. truncate:--behead.

3141. marturia, mar-too-ree'-ah; from G3144; evidence given (judicially or gen.):--record, report, testimony, witness.

2424. Iesous, ee-ay-sooce'; of Heb. or. [H3091]; Jesus (i.e. Jehoshua), the name of our Lord and two (three) other Isr.:--Jesus.

2316. theos, theh'-os; of uncert. affin.; a deity, espec. (with G3588) the supreme Divinity; fig. a magistrate; by Heb. very:--X exceeding, God, god [-ly, -ward].

3748. hostis, hos'-tis; includ. the fem.

4352. proskuneo, pros-koo-neh'-o; from G4314 and a prob. der. of G2965 (mean. to kiss, like a dog licking his master's hand); to fawn or crouch to, i.e. (lit. or fig.) prostrate oneself in homage (do reverence to, adore):--worship.

2342. therion, thay-ree'-on; dimin. from the same as G2339; a dangerous animal:--(venomous, wild) beast.

3777. oute, oo'-teh; from G3756 and G5037; not too, i.e. neither or nor; by anal. not even:--neither, none, nor (yet), (no, yet) not, nothing.

1504. eikon, i-kone'; from G1503; a likeness, i.e. (lit.) statute, profile, or (fig.) representation, resemblance:--image.

2532. kai, kahee; appar. a prim. particle, having a copulative and sometimes also a cumulative force; and, also, even, so, then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words:--and, also, both, but, even, for, if, indeed, likewise, moreover, or, so, that, then, therefore, when, yea, yet.

3756. ou, oo; also (before a vowel)

2983. lambano, lam-ban'-o; a prol. form of a prim. verb, which is used only as an alt. in certain tenses; to take (in very many applications, lit. and fig. [prop. obj. or act., to get hold of; whereas G1209 is rather subj. or pass., to have offered to one; while G138 is more violent, to seize or remove]):--accept, + be amazed, assay, attain, bring, X when I call, catch, come on (X unto), + forget, have, hold, obtain, receive (X after), take (away, up).

5480. charagma, khar'-ag-mah; from the same as G5482; a scratch or etching, i.e. stamp (as a badge of servitude), or sculptured figure (statue):--graven, mark.

3359. metopon, met'-o-pon; from G3326 and ops (the face); the forehead (as opposite the countenance):--forehead.

5495. cheir, khire; perh. from the base of G5494 in the sense of its congener the base of G5490 (through the idea of hollowness for grasping); the hand (lit. or fig. [power]; espec. [by Heb.] a means or instrument):--hand.

2198. zao, dzah'-o; a prim. verb; to live (lit. or fig.):--life (-time), (a-) live (-ly), quick.

936. basileuo, bas-il-yoo'-o; from G935; to rule (lit. or fig.):--king, reign.

5547. Christos, khris-tos'; from G5548; anointed, i.e. the Messiah, an epithet of Jesus:--Christ.

5507. chilioi, khil'-ee-oy; plur. of uncert. affin.; a thousand:--thousand.

2094. etos, et'-os; appar. a prim. word; a year:--year.

Organized Religion’s authority – It is interesting to note that in the New Testament, the exclusive use of the authority of Judeo-Christian Organized Religion past and future was and will be for the persecution of the Body of Christ.

John 7:26 (NIV) Here he is, speaking publicly, and they are not saying a word to him. Have the authorities (archon) really concluded that he is the Christ ?

John 7:26 (HG) . ide:G2396 . laleo:G2980 parrhesia:G3954 . . lego:G3004 oudeis:G3762 . . . . archon:G758 ginosko:G1097 alethos:G230 . houtos:G3778 . . alethos:G230 christos:G5547

758. archon, ar'-khone; pres. part. of G757; a first (in rank or power):--chief (ruler), magistrate, prince, ruler.

Acts 9:14 (NIV) And he has come here with authority (exousia) from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name."

Acts 26:10 (NIV) And that is just what I did in Jerusalem. On the authority (exousia) of the chief priests I put many of the saints in prison, and when they were put to death, I cast my vote against them.

Acts 26:12 (NIV) "On one of these journeys I was going to Damascus with the authority (exousia) and commission of the chief priests.

Revelation 13:2 (NIV) The beast I saw resembled a leopard, but had feet like those of a bear and a mouth like that of a lion. The dragon gave the beast his power and his throne and great authority (exousia).

Revelation 13:4-5 (NIV) Men worshiped the dragon because he had given authority (exousia) to the beast, and they also worshiped the beast and asked, "Who is like the beast? Who can make war against him?" 5 The beast was given a mouth to utter proud words and blasphemies and to exercise his authority (exousia) for forty-two months.

Revelation 13:7 (NIV) He was given power to make war against the saints and to conquer them. And he was given authority (exousia) over every tribe, people, language and nation.

Revelation 13:12 (NIV) He exercised all the authority (exousia) of the first beast on his behalf, and made the earth and its inhabitants worship the first beast, whose fatal wound had been healed.

Revelation 17:12-13 (NIV) "The ten horns you saw are ten kings who have not yet received a kingdom, but who for one hour will receive authority (exousia) as kings along with the beast. 13 They have one purpose and will give their power and authority (exousia) to the beast.

God’s authority

Acts 1:7 (NIV) He said to them: "It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority (exousia).

Jesus’ authority

Matthew 7:29 (NIV) because he taught as one who had authority (exousia), and not as their teachers of the law.

Matthew 9:6 (NIV) But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority (exousia) on earth to forgive sins. . . ." Then he said to the paralytic, "Get up, take your mat and go home."

Matthew 9:8 (NIV) When the crowd saw this, they were filled with awe; and they praised God, who had given such authority (exousia) to men.

Matthew 21:23-24 (NIV) Jesus entered the temple courts, and, while he was teaching, the chief priests and the elders of the people came to him. "By what authority (exousia) are you doing these things?" they asked. "And who gave you this authority (exousia)?" 24 Jesus replied, "I will also ask you one question. If you answer me, I will tell you by what authority (exousia) I am doing these things.

Matthew 21:27 (NIV) So they answered Jesus, "We don't know." Then he said, "Neither will I tell you by what authority (exousia) I am doing these things.

Matthew 28:18 (NIV) Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority (exousia) in heaven and on earth has been given to me.

Mark 1:22 (NIV) The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority (exousia), not as the teachers of the law.

Mark 1:27 (NIV) The people were all so amazed that they asked each othe= r, "What is this? A new teaching--and with authority (exousia)! He even gives orders to evil spirits and they obey him."

Mark 2:10 (NIV) But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority (exousia) on earth to forgive sins . . . ." He said to the paralytic,

Mark 11:28-29 (NIV) "By what authority (exousia) are you doing these things?" they asked. "And who gave you authority (exousia) to do this?" 29 Jesus replied, "I will ask you one question. Answer me, and I will tell you by what authority (exousia) I am doing these things.

Mark 11:33 (NIV) So they answered Jesus, "We don't know." Jesus said, "Neither will I tell you by what authority (exousia) I am doing these things."

Luke 4:32 (NIV) They were amazed at his teaching, because his message had authority (exousia).

Luke 4:36 (NIV) All the people were amazed and said to each other, "What is this teaching? With authority (exousia) and power he gives orders to evil spirits and they come out!"

Luke 5:24 (NIV) But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority (exousia) on earth to forgive sins. . . ." He said to the paralyzed man, "I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home."

Luke 20:2 (NIV) "Tell us by what authority (exousia) you are doing these things," they said. "Who gave you this authority (exousia)?"

Luke 20:8 (NIV) Jesus said, "Neither will I tell you by what authority (exousia) I am doing these things."

John 2:18 (NIV) Then the Jews demanded of him, "What miraculous sign can you show us to prove your authority (NIG) to do all this?"

John 2:18 (KJV) Then answered the Jews and said unto him, What sign shewest thou unto us, seeing that thou doest these things?

John 2:18 (HG) oun:G3767 apokrinomai:G611 . ioudaios:G2453 . epo:G2036 . . tis:G5101 semeion:G4592 deiknuo:G1166 . . . . . . poieo:G4160 tauta:G5023 .

3767. oun, oon; appar. a prim. word; (adv.) certainly, or (conj.) accordingly:--and (so, truly), but, now (then), so (likewise then), then, therefore, verily, wherefore.

611. apokrinomai, ap-ok-ree'-nom-ahee; from G575 and krino; to conclude for oneself, i.e. (by impl.) to respond; by Hebr. [comp. H6030] to begin to speak (where an address is expected):--answer.

2453. Ioudaios, ee-oo-dah'-yos; from G2448 (in the sense of G2455 as a country); Judaean, i.e. belonging to Jehudah:--Jew (-ess), of Judaea.

5101. tis, tis; prob. emphat. of G5100; an interrog. pron., who, which, or what (in direct or indirect questions):--every man, how (much), + no (-ne, thing), what (manner, thing), where ([-by, -fore, -of, -unto, -with, -withal]), whether, which, who (-m, -se), why.

4592. semeion, say-mi'-on; neut. of a presumed der. of the base of G4591; an indication, espec. cer. or supernat.:--miracle, sign, token, wonder.

1166. deiknuo, dike-noo'-o; a prol. form of an obs. prim. of the same mean.; to show (lit. or fig.):--shew.

5023. tauta, tow'-tah; nom. or acc. neut. plur. of G3778; these things:--+ afterward, follow, + hereafter, X him, the same, so, such, that, then, these, they, this, those, thus.

John 5:27 (NIV) And he has given him authority (exousia) to judge because he is the Son of Man.

John 10:18 (NIV) No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority (exousia) to lay it down and authority (exousia) to take it up again. This command I received from my Father."

John 17:2 (NIV) For you granted him authority (exousia) over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him.

1 Thessalonians 4:2 (NIV) For you know what instructions we gave you by the authority (NIG) of the Lord Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 4:2 (KJV) For ye know what commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 4:2 (HG) . . eido:G1492 tis:G5101 paraggelia:G3852 . didomi:G1325 . . . kurios:G2962 iesous:G2424

3852. paraggelia, par-ang-gel-ee'-ah; from G3853; a mandate:--charge, command.

2962. kurios, koo'-ree-os; from kuros (supremacy); supreme in authority, i.e. (as noun) controller; by impl. Mr. (as a respectful title):--God, Lord, master, Sir.

2424. Iesous, ee-ay-sooce'; of Heb. or. [H3091]; Jesus (i.e. Jehoshua), the name of our Lord and two (three) other Isr.:--Jesus.

Jude 1:25 (NIV) to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority (exousia), through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.

Revelation 2:27 (NIV) 'He will rule them with an iron scepter; he will dash them to pieces like pottery' -- just as I have received authority (NIG) from my Father.

Revelation 2:27 (KJV) And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father.

Revelation 2:27 (HG) . . . poimaino:G4165 . . . rhabdos:G4464 . sidereos:G4603 . . skeuos:G4632 . . keramikos:G2764 . . . suntribo:G4937 . suntribo:G4937 kago:G2504 . . lambano:G2983 . . pater:G3962

4165. poimaino, poy-mah'ee-no; from G4166; to tend as a shepherd (or fig. superviser):--feed (cattle), rule.

4464. rhabdos, hrab'-dos; from the base of G4474; a stick or wand (as a cudgel, a cane or a baton of royalty):--rod, sceptre, staff.

4603. sidereos, sid-ay'-reh-os; from G4604; made of iron:--(of) iron.

4632. skeuos, skyoo'-os; of uncert. affin.; a vessel, implement, equipment or apparatus (lit. or fig. [spec. a wife as contributing to the usefulness of the husband]):--goods, sail, stuff, vessel.

2764. keramikos, ker-am-ik-os'; from G2766; made of clay, i.e. earthen:--of a potter.

4937. suntribo, soon-tree'-bo; from G4862 and the base of G5147; to crush completely, i.e. to shatter (lit. or fig.):--break (in pieces), broken to shivers (+ -hearted), bruise.

2504. kago, kag-o'; from G2532 and G1473 (so also the dat. kamoi, kam-oy'; and acc. kame, kam-eh'); and (or also, even, etc.) I, (to) me:--(and, even, even so, so) I (also, in like wise), both me, me also.

3962. pater, pat-ayr'; appar. a prim. word; a "father " (lit. or fig., near or more remote):--father, parent.

Revelation 12:10 (NIV) Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: "Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority (exousia) of his Christ. For the accuser of our brothers, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down.

The Law’s authority

Romans 7:1 (NIV) Do you not know, brothers--for I am speaking to men who know the law--that the law has authority (kurieuo) over a man only as long as he lives?

Romans 7:1 (HG) agnoeo:G50 . . adelphos:G80 . . laleo:G2980 . . . ginosko:G1097 . nomos:G3551 . . . nomos:G3551 . kurieuo:G2961 . . anthropos:G444 . chronos:G5550 . . zao:G2198

2961. kurieuo, koo-ree-yoo'-o; from G2962; to rule:--have dominion over, lord, be lord of, exercise lordship over.

Angelic authority

1 Corinthians 15:24 (NIV) Then the end will come, when he hands over the kingdom to God the Father after he has destroyed all dominion, authority (exousia) and power.

Ephesians 1:21 (NIV) far above all rule and authority (exousia), power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.

Ephesians 3:10 (NIV) His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities (exousia) in the heavenly realms,

Ephesians 6:12 (NIV) For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities (exousia), against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

Colossians 1:16 (NIV) For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities (exousia); all things were created by him and for him.

Colossians 2:10 (NIV) and you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and authority(exousia).

Colossians 2:15 (NIV) And having disarmed the powers and authorities (exousia), he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.

1 Peter 3:22 (NIV) who has gone into heaven and is at God's right hand--with angels, authorities (exousia) and powers in submission to him.

Jude 1:6 (NIV) And the angels who did not keep their positions of authority (NIG) but abandoned their own home--these he has kept in darkness, bound with everlasting chains for judgment on the great Day.

Jude 1:6 (HG) . . aggelos:G32 . tereo:G5083 . . arche:G746 . . apoleipo:G620 . idios:G2398 oiketerion:G3613 . . tereo:G5083 . aidios:G126 desmon:G1199 hupo:G5259 zophos:G2217 . . krisis:G2920 . . megas:G3173 hemera:G2250

32. aggelos, ang'-el-os; from aggello [prob. der. from G71; comp. G34] (to bring tidings); a messenger; esp. an "angel"; by impl. a pastor:--angel, messenger.

746. arche, ar-khay'; from G756; (prop. abstr.) a commencement, or (concr.) chief (in various applications of order, time, place or rank):--beginning, corner, (at the, the) first (estate), magistrate, power, principality, principle, rule.

620. apoleipo, ap-ol-ipe'-o; from G575 and G3007; to leave behind (pass, remain); by impl. to forsake:--leave, remain.

2398. idios, id'-ee-os; of uncert. affin.; pertaining to self, i.e. one's own; by impl. private or separate:--X his acquaintance, when they were alone, apart, aside, due, his (own, proper, several), home, (her, our, thine, your) own (business), private (-ly), proper, severally, their (own).

3613. oiketerion, oy-kay-tay'-ree-on; neut. of a presumed der. of G3611 (equiv. to G3612); a residence (lit. or fig.):--habitation, house.

126. aidios, ah-id'-ee-os; from G104; everduring (forward and backward, or forward only):--eternal, everlasting.

1199. desmon, des-mon'; or desmos, des-mos'; neut. and masc. respectively from G1210; a band, i.e. ligament (of the body) or shackle (of a prisoner); fig. an impediment or disability:--band, bond, chain, string.

5259. hupo, hoop-o'; a prim. prep.; under, i.e. (with the gen.) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the acc.) of place (whither [underneath] or where [below]) or time (when [at]):--among, by, from, in, of, under, with. In comp. it retains the same gen. applications, espec. of inferior position or condition, and spec. covertly or moderately.

2217. zophos, dzof'-os; akin to the base of G3509; gloom (as shrouding like a cloud):--blackness, darkness, mist.

2920. krisis, kree'-sis; decision (subj. or obj., for or against); by extens. a tribunal; by impl. justice (spec. divine law):--accusation, condemnation, damnation, judgment.

3173. megas, meg'-as [includ. the prol. forms, fem. megale, plur. megaloi, etc.; comp. also G3176, G3187]; big (lit. or fig., in a very wide application):--(+ fear) exceedingly, great (-est), high, large, loud, mighty, + (be) sore (afraid), strong, X to years.

2250. hemera, hay-mer'-ah; fem. (with G5610 implied) of a der. of hemai (to sit; akin to the base of G1476) mean. tame, i.e. gentle; day, i.e. (lit.) the time space between dawn and dark, or the whole H24 hours (but several days were usually reckoned by the Jews as inclusive of the parts of both extremes); fig. a period (always defined more or less clearly by the context):--age, + alway, (mid-) day (by day, [-ly]), + for ever, judgment, (day) time, while, years.

Revelation 18:1 (NIV) After this I saw another angel coming down from heaven. He had great authority (exousia), and the earth was illuminated by his splendor.

Governmental authority

Matthew 20:25 (NIV) Jesus called them together and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority (katexousiazo) over them.

Matthew 20:25 (HG) . iesous:G2424 proskaleomai:G4341 . . . . epo:G2036 . eido:G1492 . . archon:G758 . . ethnos:G1484 katakurieuo:G2634 katakurieuo:G2634 . . . . . . megalos:G3171 katexousiazo:G2715 katexousiazo:G2715 .

2715. katexousiazo, kat-ex-oo-see-ad'-zo; from G2596 and G1850; to have (wield) full privilege over:--exercise authority.

Mark 10:42 (NIV) Jesus called them together and said, "You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority (katexousiazo) over them.

Mark 10:42 (HG) . iesous:G2424 proskaleomai:G4341 . . . . lego:G3004 . . . eido:G1492 . . . . dokeo:G1380 . archo:G757 . . ethnos:G1484 katakurieuo:G2634 katakurieuo:G2634 . . . . megas:G3173 . katexousiazo:G2715 katexousiazo:G2715 .

2715. katexousiazo, kat-ex-oo-see-ad'-zo; from G2596 and G1850; to have (wield) full privilege over:--exercise authority.

Luke 4:6 (NIV) And he said to him, "I will give you all their authority (exousia) and splendor, for it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to.

Luke 12:11 (NIV) "When you are brought before synagogues, rulers and authorities (exousia), do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say,

Luke 20:20 (NIV) Keeping a close watch on him, they sent spies, who pretended to be honest. They hoped to catch Jesus in something he said so that they might hand him over to the power and authority (exousia) of the governor.

Luke 22:25 (NIV) Jesus said to them, "The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority (exousiazo) over them call themselves Benefactors.

Luke 22:25 (HG) . . epo:G2036 . . . basileus:G935 . . ethnos:G1484 kurieuo:G2961 kurieuo:G2961 . . . . . exousiazo:G1850 exousiazo:G1850 . . . kaleo:G2564 euergetes:G2110

1850. exousiazo, ex-oo-see-ad'-zo; from G1849; to control:--exercise authority upon, bring under the (have) power of.

Acts 16:19 (NIV) When the owners of the slave girl realized that their hope of making money was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace to face the authorities (archon).

Acts 16:19 (HG) . . . kurios:G2962 eido:G1492 . . elpis:G1680 . . eti:G2089 . exerchomai:G1831 . epilambanomai:G1949 paulos:G3972 . silas:G4609 . helkuo:G1670 . eis:G1519 . agora:G58 . . archon:G758

758. archon, ar'-khone; pres. part. of G757; a first (in rank or power):--chief (ruler), magistrate, prince, ruler.

Romans 13:1-3 (NIV) Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities (exousia), for there is no authority (exousia) except that which God has established. The authorities (exousia) that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, he who rebels against the authority (exousia) is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority (exousia)? Then do what is right and he will commend you.

Romans 13:5 (NIV) Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities (NIG), not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience.

Romans 13:5 (KJV) Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.

Romans 13:5 (HG) dio:G1352 . . anagke:G318 . hupotasso:G5293 . monon:G3440 . orge:G3709 . kai:G2532 . suneidesis:G4893 .

1352. dio, dee-o'; from G1223 and G3739; through which thing, i.e. consequently:--for which cause, therefore, wherefore.

318. anagke, an-ang-kay'; from G303 and the base of G43; constraint (lit. or fig.); by impl. distress:--distress, must needs, (of) necessity (-sary), neededth, needful.

5293. hupotasso, hoop-ot-as'-so; from G5259 and G5021; to subordinate; reflex. to obey:--be under obedience (obedient), put under, subdue unto, (be, make) subject (to, unto), be (put) in subjection (to, under), submit self unto.

3440. monon, mon'-on; neut. of G3441 as adv.; merely:--alone, but, only.

3709. orge, or-gay'; from G3713; prop. desire (as a reaching forth or excitement of the mind), i.e. (by anal.) violent passion (ire, or [justifiable] abhorrence); by impl. punishment:--anger, indignation, vengeance, wrath.

4893. suneidesis, soon-i'-day-sis; from a prol. form of G4894; co-perception, i.e. moral consciousness:--conscience.

Romans 13:6 (NIV) This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities (NIG) are God's servants, who give their full time to governing.

Romans 13:6 (KJV) For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.

Romans 13:6 (HG) . . touto:G5124 dia:G1223 teleo:G5055 . phoros:G5411 kai:G2532 . . . theos:G2316 leitourgos:G3011 proskartereo:G4342 proskartereo:G4342 . touto:G5124 autos:G846 .

5124. touto, too'-to; neut. sing. nom. or acc. of G3778; that thing:--here [-unto], it, partly, self [-same], so, that (intent), the same, there [-fore, -unto], this, thus, where [-fore].

1223. dia, dee-ah'; a prim. prep. denoting the channel of an act; through (in very wide applications, local, causal or occasional):--after, always, among, at, to avoid, because of (that), briefly, by, for (cause) . . . fore, from, in, by occasion of, of, by reason of, for sake, that, thereby, therefore, X though, through (-out), to, wherefore, with (-in). In composition it retains the same general import.

5055. teleo, tel-eh'-o; from G5056; to end, i.e. complete, execute, conclude, discharge (a debt):--accomplish, make an end, expire, fill up, finish, go over, pay, perform.

5411. phoros, for'-os; from G5342; a load (as borne), i.e. (fig.) a tax (prop. an individ. assessment on persons or property; whereas G5056 is usually a gen. toll on goods or travel):--tribute.

2316. theos, theh'-os; of uncert. affin.; a deity, espec. (with G3588) the supreme Divinity; fig. a magistrate; by Heb. very:--X exceeding, God, god [-ly, -ward].

3011. leitourgos, li-toorg-os'; from a der. of G2992 and G2041; a public servant, i.e. a functionary in the Temple or Gospel, or (gen.) a worshipper (of God) or benefactor (of man):--minister (-ed).

4342. proskartereo, pros-kar-ter-eh'-o; from G4314 and G2594; to be earnest towards, i.e. (to a thing) to persevere, be constantly diligent, or (in a place) to attend assiduously all the exercises, or (to a person) to adhere closely to (as a servitor):--attend (give self) continually (upon), continue (in, instant in, with), wait on (continually).

5124. touto, too'-to; neut. sing. nom. or acc. of G3778; that thing:--here [-unto], it, partly, self [-same], so, that (intent), the same, there [-fore, -unto], this, thus, where [-fore].

846. autos, ow-tos'; from the particle au [perh. akin to the base of G109 through the idea of a baffling wind] (backward); the reflex. pron. self, used (alone or in the comp. G1438) of the third pers., and (with the prop. pers. pron.) of the other persons:--her, it (-self), one, the other, (mine) own, said, ([self-], the) same, ([him-, my-, thy-]) self, [your-] selves, she, that, their (-s), them ([-selves]), there [-at, -by, -in, -into, -of, -on, -with], they, (these) things, this (man), those, together, very, which. Comp. G848.

1 Timothy 2:2 (NIV) for kings and all those in authority (huperoche), that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.

1 Timothy 2:2 (HG) . basileus:G935 . . pas:G3956 . . . huperoche:G5247 . . . diago:G1236 . eremos:G2263 . hesuchios:G2272 bios:G979 . pas:G3956 eusebeia:G2150 . semnotes:G4587

5247. huperoche, hoop-er-okh-ay'; from G5242; prominence, i.e. (fig.) superiority (in rank or character):--authority, excellency.

Titus 3:1 (NIV) Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities (exousia), to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good,

1 Peter 2:13 (NIV) Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every authority (ktisis) instituted among men: whether to the king, as the supreme authority (NIG),

1 Peter 2:13 (HG) hupotasso:G5293 . . pas:G3956 ktisis:G2937 . anthropinos:G442 . . kurios:G2962 . eite:G1535 . . . . basileus:G935 . huperecho:G5242

2937. ktisis, ktis'-is; from G2936; original formation (prop. the act; by impl. the thing, lit. or fig.):--building, creation, creature, ordinance.

442. anthropinos, anth-ro'-pee-nos; from G444; human:--human, common to man, man[-kind], [man-]kind, men's, after the manner of men.

2962. kurios, koo'-ree-os; from kuros (supremacy); supreme in authority, i.e. (as noun) controller; by impl. Mr. (as a respectful title):--God, Lord, master, Sir.

1535. eite, i'-teh; from G1487 and G5037; if too:--if, or, whether.

935. basileus, bas-il-yooce'; prob. from G939 (through the notion of a foundation of power); a sovereign (abs., rel. or fig.):--king.

5242. huperecho, hoop-er-ekh'-o; from G5228 and G2192; to hold oneself above, i.e. (fig.) to excel; part. (as adj., or neut. as noun) superior, superiority:--better, excellency, higher, pass, supreme.

2 Peter 2:10 (NIV) This is especially true of those who follow the corrupt desire of the sinful nature and despise authority (kuriotes). Bold and arrogant, these men are not afraid to slander celestial beings;

2 Peter 2:10 (HG) . malista:G3122 . . poreuomai:G4198 opiso:G3694 . sarx:G4561 . . epithumia:G1939 . miasmos:G3394 . kataphroneo:G2706 kuriotes:G2963 tolmetes:G5113 . . authades:G829 . . . tremo:G5141 . blasphemeo:G987 blasphemeo:G987 . doxa:G1391

2963. kuriotes, koo-ree-ot'-ace; from G2962; mastery, i.e. (concr. and coll.) rulers:--dominion, government.

Jude 1:8 (NIV) In the very same way, these dreamers pollute their own bodies, reject authority (kuriotes) and slander celestial beings.

Jude 1:8 (HG) homoios:G3668 kai:G2532 houtos:G3778 . enupniazomai:G1797 miaino:G3392 . sarx:G4561 atheteo:G114 kuriotes:G2963 . blasphemeo:G987 blasphemeo:G987 . doxa:G1391

2963. kuriotes, koo-ree-ot'-ace; from G2962; mastery, i.e. (concr. and coll.) rulers:--dominion, government.

The husband’s authority

1 Corinthians 11:10 (NIV) For this reason, and because of the angels, the woman ought to have a sign of authority (exousia) on her head.

1 Timothy 2:12 (NIV) I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority (authenteo) over a man; she must be silent.

1 Timothy 2:12 (HG) . . epitrepo:G2010 . . gune:G1135 . didasko:G1321 oude:G3761 . authenteo:G831 authenteo:G831 . . aner:G435 . . . . kerdos:G2771

831. authenteo, ow-then-teh'-o; from a comp. of G846 and an obsol. hentes (a worker); to act of oneself, i.e. (fig.) dominate:--usurp authority over.

The Centurion’s authority

Matthew 8:9 (NIV) For I myself am a man under authority (exousia), with soldiers under me. I tell this one, 'Go,' and he goes; and that one, 'Come,' and he comes. I say to my servant, 'Do this,' and he does it."

Luke 7:8 (NIV) For I myself am a man under authority (exousia), with soldiers under me. I tell this one, 'Go,' and he goes; and that one, 'Come,' and he comes. I say to my servant, 'Do this,' and he does it."

Jesus’ directions to the Body of Christ:

Matthew 10:1-23 (NIV) He called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out evil spirits and to heal every disease and sickness. 2 These are the names of the twelve apostles: first, Simon (who is called Peter) and his brother Andrew; James son of Zebedee, and his brother John; 3 Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; 4 Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. 5 These twelve Jesus sent out with the following instructions: "Do not go among the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans. 6 Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel. 7 As you go, preach this message: 'The kingdom of heaven is near.' 8 Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received, freely give. 9 Do not take along any gold or silver or copper in your belts; 10 take no bag for the journey, or extra tunic, or sandals or a staff; for the worker is worth his keep. 11 "Whatever town or village you enter, search for some worthy person there and stay at his house until you leave. 12 As you enter the home, give it your greeting. 13 If the home is deserving, let your peace rest on it; if it is not, let your peace return to you. 14 If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, shake the dust off your feet when you leave that home or town. 15 I tell you the truth, it will be more bearable for Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than for that town. 16 I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves. 17 "Be on your guard against men; they will hand you over to the local councils and flog you in their synagogues. 18 On my account you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles. 19 But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, 20 for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. 21 "Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death. 22 All men will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved. 23 When you are persecuted in one place, flee to another. I tell you the truth, you will not finish going through the cities of Israel before the Son of Man comes.

Matthew 28:18-20 (NIV) Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

Mark 3:13-19 (NIV) Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him. 14 He appointed twelve--designating them apostles --that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach 15 and to have authority to drive out demons. 16 These are the twelve he appointed: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter); 17 James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them he gave the name Boanerges, which means Sons of Thunder); 18 Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot 19 and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.

Mark 6:6-12 (NIV) And he was amazed at their lack of faith. Then Jesus went around teaching from village to village. 7 Calling the Twelve to him, he sent them out two by two and gave them authority over evil spirits. 8 These were his instructions: "Take nothing for the journey except a staff--no bread, no bag, no money in your belts. 9 Wear sandals but not an extra tunic. 10 Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you leave that town. 11 And if any place will not welcome you or listen to you, shake the dust off your feet when you leave, as a testimony against them." 12 They went out and preached that people should repent.

Mark 16:15-20 (NIV) He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation. 16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. 17 And these signs will accompany those who