But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity 

(2 PETER 2:18 ESV.

Grace and Peace Family! 
This month we invite you to join us for bible study as we begin to unpack The Principles of Authority “God’s Plan to Protect Our Lives.” . G.R.O.W. is a community-based bible study in the Tampa Bay area created to encourage, inspired, and uplifted you each week as you receive insight into God’s Word. Click here to register or learn how to join us online or in person. 

“What does spiritual authority look like in our lives today?” The question of authority is a fundamental issue facing every person, especially the believer. Its significance cannot be overestimated. Every person has an authority in life that he or she submits to as a subordinate, not by constraint but by conviction. Furthermore, God has created human beings to live under his authority. When they choose to live under a different rule, that of self or an idol, they sin. This is, in a simple summary, the teaching of (Genesis 1-3). That portion of Scripture illustrates the human tendency, moved by pride, to seek independence from external authority and to establish self as the final authority in life.

To help further build a framework, we will begin unpacking this idea of spiritual authority through four important biblical principles throughout the month of February ’s daily devotions and our weekly Bible study G.R.O. W.  Let’s begin to unpack this important biblical principle click link to Read More 

Key Takeaways

• Understanding the Biblical Basis of Spiritual Authority: Discovering its foundation in Scripture.
• The Role of Spiritual Authority in Personal Growth: How it shapes your spiritual maturity.
• Exercising Spiritual Authority in the Church: Navigating its application in congregational settings.
• Distinguishing Between Worldly and Spiritual Authority: Learning to recognize and uphold God’s design.

Last Week’s Review: Understanding the Biblical Basis of Spiritual Authority. Discovering its foundation in Scripture.

• Authority in Creation: God’s Original Design The concept of authority begins in Genesis. “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1). Here, we see God as the ultimate authority, bringing forth creation through His word. 
• The Delegation of Authority to Humanity In Genesis 1:28, God blessed humanity, saying, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it.” This wasn’t just a command; it was a delegation of authority.
• The Fall and the Distortion of Authority. The Fall of Man (Genesis 3) introduces a twist in understanding authority. Adam and Eve’s disobedience distorted the perfect design of authority. 
• You are called to exercise this authority with wisdom, humility, and love. The example set by Jesus Christ, the ultimate authority, provides a model for how to live and lead in alignment with God’s will.
• Remember, spiritual authority is not about dominion or control, but about stewarding the influence God has entrusted to you in a manner that reflects His character and purposes. As you embrace this divine calling, may you walk in the fullness of the authority granted to you, impacting your life, the church, and society in transformative ways.

This Week’s Bible Study:  The Role of Spiritual Authority in Personal Growth. How it shapes your spiritual maturity.

• Spiritual Authority as a Catalyst for Maturity Spiritual authority isn’t just about leading others; it’s also about personal growth. Hebrews 13:17 advises, “Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls.” This submission isn’t blind; it’s a conscious choice to grow under godly leadership, enhancing your spiritual maturity.
• Discernment and Authority Spiritual maturity involves discernment, especially in recognizing and respecting authority. 1 John 4:1 encourages, “Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God.” As you grow in your faith, understanding the nature of true spiritual authority – one that aligns with God’s Word – becomes crucial.
• The Relationship Between Authority and Servanthood Jesus’ life exemplified the balance between authority and servanthood. In John 13:14, Jesus, having washed His disciples’ feet, said, “If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.” This act underscores an essential truth: true authority in the Kingdom of God is marked by humility and service.

God wants us to walk in truth.