Reading: The Relationship Engine of Authority by Brian DeCook

The Relationship Engine of Authority and the Heat of Competition

Scripture references: Romans 13:1; Matt. 28:18; John 5:30; John 12:49-50; John 14:10; Matt. 8:5-10; Matthew 20:25-28

1.         All authority comes from God. Romans 13:1

2.         All authority was given to Jesus Christ. Matt. 28:18

3.         Authority is a power that is delegated and limited in scope. All authority is relational - an under/over aspect. Jesus was a man under authority. John 5:30; John 12:49-50; John 14:10

4.         Understanding authority is a key feature of having great faith. Matt. 8:5-10

5.         The purpose of authority is to serve. Matt. 20:25-28

6.         The fuel that keeps the Authority Relationship Engine running in a healthy direction is respect and responsibility. Disrespect and irresponsibility will result in dysfunction and unhealthy authority relationships.

7.         How you handle your authority impacts team unity.

8.         Abuse of authority begins when we begin to serve self (inward mindset) rather than God (Jesus mindset) and others (outward mindset).