This lesson emphasizes the authority believers have in Christ as those who walk the path of His presence. This intimacy we explored in the previous lesson leads to the authority to act in Jesus’ name, highlighting our calling to seek the lost and overcome the works of the Devil. Through Scripture and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, we are equipped to proclaim the kingdom of God, heal the sick, and stand firm against spiritual opposition. Rooted in the truth of God's Word, our authority is sustained by worshiping God alone and rejecting anything that exalts itself above His purposes. As people of His presence, we walk not in speculation but in the revelation of what Christ has accomplished.

Objectives

This lesson aims to equip you to:

1. Explain the connection between intimacy with God and spiritual authority, recognizing how the Holy Spirit empowers believers to carry out Jesus' mission.
2. Analyze key biblical examples, such as Elijah on Mount Carmel and Jesus on the Mount of Temptation, to understand the nature of spiritual authority and how it is exercised against opposition.
3. Apply the principles of authority in Christ to resist temptation, stand firm in faith, and boldly witness to others, embodying God's presence and Word in their daily lives.

Reading

As you prepare to proceed through this lesson, we encourage you to read Chapter 4, “Authority,” in Paul Bergin’s, The Path of Presence: A Discipleship of Dwelling with Jesus (Slingshot, 2024).