The Spiritual Man: Authority
In 2nd Corinthians chapters 10 to 13, Stephen emphasizes the importance of spiritual maturity and authority in the Christian life. He explains that God desires man—both human and divine—who is fully grown in Christ, not just a baby in faith. The spiritual man is characterized by a deep relationship with Christ, manifesting His life and authority. Stephen highlights that true authority in the church is rooted in Christ and exercised through humility, obedience, and love, rather than position or power. He illustrates that Christ’s authority was established through His humility and obedience unto death on the cross, setting an example for believers. Authority is meant for building up the body of Christ, not for domination or control. Stephen stresses that recognizing Christ as the true authority is essential for unity and growth within the church. He also points out that authority must be exercised with restraint and love, reflecting Christ’s own manner. The believer’s reaction under pressure reveals their true spiritual state—whether they react as a man in Christ or according to flesh. Ultimately, Stephen calls believers to understand that authority is a divine gift, given through obedience and love, and that recognizing and submitting to Christ’s authority leads to spiritual maturity, unity, and true liberty in the Spirit.
Outline of Main Points
- God’s desire is for man—human and divine—who is spiritually mature in Christ.
- Spiritual growth involves progressing from babyhood to full-grown maturity in Christ.
- Man in Christ is filled with Christ’s life, expressing His authority and character.
- Authority in the church is rooted in Christ, exercised through humility, obedience, and love.
- Christ’s authority was established through His humility and obedience unto death on the cross.
- Recognizing Christ as the true authority is essential for unity and building up the church.
- Authority must be exercised with restraint and love, not domination.
- Reactions under pressure reveal true spiritual maturity—reacting as a man in Christ or flesh.
- Authority is a divine gift, given through obedience, humility, and love, leading to spiritual liberty.
1 Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who in presence am base among you, but being absent am bold toward you: 2 But I beseech you, that I may not be bold when I am present with that confidence, wherewith I think to be bold against some, which think of us as if we walked according to the flesh. 3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: 4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; 6 And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.
7 Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? If any man trust to himself that he is Christ’s, let him of himself think this again, that, as he is Christ’s, even so are we Christ’s. 8 For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed:
