Daily Devo | The Use and Abuse of Authority (New Testament in a Year, 2 Corinthians 10:1-14)

Paul now attends to the matter of his own authority. There were some who challenged his authority, likely to set up their own authority instead. They accused Paul of being a paper tiger — bold on the page but timid in person. Paul responded by assuring them he could be bold in person (he had, after all, been a former persecutor of the church). However, he preferred to handle conflict quickly so he could be gentle and kind in person, more like Jesus. This shift in Paul was a manifestation of a changed life, one in which he viewed his authority as something to be used exclusively for the benefit of those under his care — a powerful word for how we might avoid abusing our authority even today.

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For Reflection:

- How does Paul's example challenge common ideas about leadership and influence?

- What does it mean to use authority to build others up rather than tear them down? Is that how others have used authority over you? Is that how you use authority over others?

- Are there thoughts, attitudes, or assumptions in your life that need to be brought into greater obedience to Christ?

- Prayer: Lord, help me trust in your authority, submitting my thoughts and attitudes to your direction and to those who care for me in your name.