Authority of Christ

Kristi explored Ephesians 1:16-20 last week. Our passage today expands on her thoughts. We will look at Ephesians 1:20-23.

“…that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion,and above every name that is is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come. And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, which is the body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.”

In this passage we see the supremacy of Christ. He has authority over all things. Sitting at the right hand of kings in past days was the highest position possible. What is Christ doing at God’s right hand? Hebrews 7:25 says He “always lives to make intercession for them,” for sinners like you and me!

He is superior to any other authority, power, or dominion because He is perfect. His motives are always pure. His actions are always holy. Have you heard the phrase, “Absolute power corrupts absolutely”? That doesn’t apply to Christ. His absolute power does not corrupt, rather His power keeps the earth spinning and our lives conforming to His will.

This is not only true of the earth now, but the future age. During the thousand year reign after the end of the tribulation, Christ will reign and those who did not worship the antichrist will reign with Him (Revelation 20:4).

Christ is not only the ruler of the earth, but He is the head of the church. Ephesians 5:23 also gives this description, “Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its savior.” As the head, Christ leads and guides the church to fulfill the mission He has given her. All the decisions we make should be led by Christ’s example and His guidance.

In this passage we see Christ’s authority over earth, the future age, and the church. We can praise His name for His power and love, trusting that His authority is perfect and true!