In Acts 3, we read about the apostles Peter and John healing a man who had been unable to walk for 40 years. Then, in Acts 4, we see the reaction of the religious leaders—they were “greatly disturbed.”
Lately, during my quiet time, I’ve been intentional about looking at Scripture from different perspectives. Typically, when I’ve heard teachings on this passage, the focus has been on Peter and John and how the Holy Spirit worked through them to heal the man. Other times, the story is presented as a source of hope for those in desperate situations. These insights are powerful. But what if we consider what we can learn from the religious leaders instead?
I understand the desire for control—the need to be in charge, to know everything that’s happening, to hold a position of authority and feel threatened when it seems like someone is stepping out of line. The religious leaders were in charge, yet they had forgotten that they themselves were under authority. They had lost sight of the fact that their power wasn’t something to cling to tightly. They needed to remember who had given them their authority and what it was meant for.
I sometimes struggle with this as well. I forget that my authority is not something I have to fight for. It’s not diminished just because someone else accomplishes something amazing or receives recognition. There’s no need to feel threatened, insecure, or envious. Instead, I need to remember that authority ultimately comes from God. He gives and takes it away as He sees fit. And just as I may hold authority, I am also called to submit to it.
Authority is a mindset. When we are secure in the authority God has given us, we no longer feel the need to defend it. We can celebrate others’ successes. We can humble ourselves and remain open to learning. Most importantly, we can rest in the truth that all authority belongs to Jesus, and He distributes it according to His will.