Authority

and they were amazed at His teaching, for His message was with authority. (Luke 4:32 NASB)

Exousia is the Greek word that is translated as "authority" in this verse. It is a word that indicates both the power to do something (might or strength) and the right to do something (jurisdiction). 

www.blueletterbible.org defines it as "the power of authority (influence) and of right (privilege)". The implication here is that he is not only an expert in his area, but also someone who must be obeyed. 

I tend to think of authority as one of three things, either police authority or governmental/legislative authority or expert-in-the-field authority. In this instance, "authority" means all three. When Jesus spoke, there was no doubt that He was an expert on Scripture. He also spoke as one who has some say in how you responded to what He said, as well as the authority to enforce it. There were no threats or new laws, but when Jesus spoke, they could tell He meant business.  

Jesus wasn't just speaking AS one who has authority. He WAS one who has authority. That kind of authority demands a response. It requires that we evaluate our lives, see where we fail to measure up, and make any changes necessary to bring our lives into compliance. 

That puts our life choices in a whole new light, doesn't it? In this world of HIPPA compliance, OSHA compliance, and AHCA (Affordable Health Care Act) compliance, there's a more important kind of compliance with which we need to concern ourselves.  Jesus compliance. Spend some time today looking at your lifestyle. How compliant are you? 

Pray today that we and our loved ones will recognize our failings in comparison to Christ, acknowledge His authority, and make whatever changes are needed to please Him.