What does the Bible say about spiritual authority?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible teaches that all true spiritual authority belongs to Jesus Christ, who rules His church by His Word and graciously equips His people to resist evil, obey God, and serve one another. Matthew 28:18 declares Christ’s universal authority, while Luke 9:1 and Luke 10:19 show Him granting His disciples authority for their mission. Believers stand firm against the devil by submitting to God, not by trusting themselves, as James 4:7 and 1 John 4:4 affirm. Church leaders are called to shepherd faithfully under Christ, and members should receive godly oversight, according to Hebrews 13:17. Romans 13:1 also teaches respect for lawful civil authority, recognizing that God alone is supreme.