Acts 19:11-16, provides the lesson on authentic authority versus imitation authority. Paul is performing mighty works using the authority and power bestowed upon him by God. He is driving out demons and healing the sick. A few men thought to replicate his authority and power by invoking Paul’s name. They men stated “In the name of Jesus whom Paul preaches, I command you to come out.” (Acts 19:11, NIV). The evil spirit responds “Jesus I know, and Paul I know about, but who are you?” (Acts 19:15, NIV) The evil spirit gives the men the worse beaten. Teaching a valuable lesson.
Imitation Game
The men were taught a lesson in the peril of being imitators. Imitation will be revealed. You cannot hide what is not true and authentic. True spiritual authority and effectiveness cannot be borrowed from others or imitated.
The Source of True Authority
Paul’s power didn’t come from a formula or technique. It flowed from his deep, personal relationship with God. Paul’s authority is not inherited or borrowed. It is earned through direct connection with God, personal faith journey, authentic relationship and divine empowerment.
Breaking Free from Second-Hand Faith
The men tried to ride on the coattails of Paul’s spiritual authority. We see this same fallacy today. Individuals are attempting to gain power by using tyranny, parents’ faith, pastor’s anointing, friend’s spiritual journey and family’s religious legacy. True spiritual power requires personal investment and a direct connection with God.
Developing Your Own Authority
Developing and accessing the power within you requires building a personal relationship with God. A personal relationship that requires spending time with God, having your own prayer life, studying and applying His word and walking your own faith journey.
The Power Within
Your authority comes from a direct connection to God. No one else can establish this connection for you. It’s a personal journey that requires individual commitment, personal investment, direct relationship and authentic faith. Every person is called to develop their own authentic relationship with God. Through an authentic relationship, you access true power and authority. Imitating yields no return for the investment God makes in you.
