Dear friend in Christ, it is essential to recognize the authority and power we possess through our union with Jesus. Pastor Bazel Chinyonga, in his message “We Have Authority in Christ,” emphasizes the spiritual authority given to us as believers and how we are empowered to live above sickness, disease, and oppression. This divine authority is not just a theological concept, but a practical reality that we must embrace to live victoriously.
Our Spiritual Authority in Christ
The foundation of our spiritual authority lies in our union with Jesus. The power and benefits that Jesus received as an exalted man are also given to us, His followers. Ephesians 1:19-23 explains the tremendous authority bestowed upon Jesus and how that same authority is extended to the Church, His body.
“The exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe…which He [the Father] worked in Christ when He raised Him…and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places…He put all things under His [Jesus’] feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him.” (Eph. 1:19-23)
Through this passage, Pastor Chinyonga reminds us that Jesus is not only the head of the Church, but we, as His body, are called to express His power on earth. We are His hands and feet, meant to exercise spiritual authority over all situations, including sickness and disease.
Raised to Sit with Jesus in Heavenly Places
Our union with Christ does not stop with His authority over the earth; we are also spiritually raised to sit with Him in heavenly places. This seating signifies our access to God’s throne and His divine power, which we can access through prayer. As Pastor Chinyonga notes, our prayers reach God’s throne and release divine power into our lives when they are aligned with His will.
“Raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ…” (Eph. 2:6)
The authority we possess in Christ is not passive. We are not meant to be idle in the face of trials or difficulties. Instead, we must actively take our place of authority in Christ. We can stand firm against sickness, lack, and any form of oppression because we have been raised to a higher position of power and victory.
Jesus’ Victory over Satan and Demonic Powers
At the cross, Jesus not only defeated sin but also triumphed over Satan and all demonic principalities. This victory is absolute and final, and as believers, we share in it. Colossians 2:15 powerfully illustrates this victory:
“Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it [His death and resurrection].” (Col. 2:15)
Pastor Chinyonga emphasizes that this victory was not a private affair. Jesus’ triumph over Satan was witnessed by heaven, hell, and earth, signifying that His authority is complete and uncontested. As believers, we walk in the power of this victory, and we can resist any form of demonic attack in our lives.
Delegated Authority: Exercising Power in Jesus’ Name
One of the most practical aspects of Pastor Chinyonga’s message is the concept of delegated authority. Just as a police officer stops a vehicle not by his own strength but by the authority vested in him by the government, we exercise spiritual authority in Jesus’ name. Our authority does not come from our strength, but from Jesus, who has given us power over all the works of the enemy.
“The thief [Satan] does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10)
Satan seeks to steal, kill, and destroy the blessings of God in our lives—whether through sickness, fear, financial lack, or emotional turmoil. But we are not helpless victims. Through our authority in Christ, we can resist Satan’s attacks and enforce the abundant life that Jesus promised. This abundant life is not just spiritual, but also physical, emotional, and material.
Enforcing Jesus’ Authority on Earth
Finally, Pastor Chinyonga emphasizes the importance of enforcing Jesus’ authority on earth. While Satan may attempt to attack us, he can only continue if we accept his advances. As believers, we are called to resist the devil and all his schemes. James 4:7 gives us the clear instruction:
“Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7)
When we submit to God’s will and exercise our spiritual authority, Satan has no choice but to flee. This is not a passive resistance; it is an active, faith-filled stand against the works of the enemy. Pastor Chinyonga encourages believers to use their authority in Christ to push back against every form of oppression. Whether it is sickness, financial hardship, or emotional distress, we have the power to declare victory in Jesus’ name.
Conclusion: Walking in Our Authority
In conclusion, our spiritual authority is based on our union with Jesus, who has been given all power and authority by God. We are seated with Him in heavenly places, and through His victory over Satan, we have the authority to resist the enemy and enforce God’s will on earth.
As we walk in this authority, let us remember that we are called to live above sickness, fear, and oppression. We have the power to declare life, healing, and abundance in every area of our lives. It is time to take our rightful place as the body of Christ and exercise the authority that has been given to us through our Savior, Jesus Christ.
Pastor Bazel Chinyonga is a devoted minister known for founding impactful ministries. His journey began with a deep calling to serve God, affirmed through dreams and prophecies. Starting his ministry at 19, he led prayer groups and evangelized extensively, eventually becoming a minister at Full Life Fellowship Church.
