5 Day Devo:

Day 1: Who Has the Right? Reading: Matthew 21:23-27 — The chief priests and elders demand to know the source of Jesus' authority, and He responds with a question that silences them.

Devotional: Authority is something every human heart wrestles with. We want guidance when it suits us and independence when it does not. The religious leaders in this passage knew the answer to Jesus' question but refused to speak it because the truth would cost them something. Consider how often you do the same — acknowledging Christ's lordship in word while quietly negotiating the boundaries of His reach in your daily life. Where today are you saying "I do not know" when you already do?

Day 2: The Authority We Borrow Reading: Romans 13:1-7 — Paul describes how all governing authority ultimately derives from God, who establishes it for order and human good.

Devotional: God grants borrowed authority to parents, governments, employers, and church leaders. This is a gift meant to reflect His order and care in the world. The danger comes when borrowed authority becomes something we use to serve ourselves rather than others. The sermon reminds us that we often want authority to say no — to determine our own limits, protect our own comfort, and manage our own lives. Examine the authority entrusted to you today. Is it being used to serve, or to insulate yourself from the full lordship of Christ?

Day 3: Quiet Before the Cross Reading: Isaiah 53:7 — The suffering servant is described as one who, when oppressed and afflicted, did not open his mouth but went silently, like a lamb led to slaughter.

Devotional: Jesus stood silent before Pilate, before the high priests, and before the shouting crowd. He who held all authority in heaven and on earth said nothing in His own defense. This silence was not weakness — it was the most powerful act in human history. He did not use His authority for Himself. He used it entirely for you. When life feels loud and out of control, return to this image of Christ, silent and willing, walking toward the cross on your behalf. His silence purchased your peace.

Day 4: I Lay It Down Reading: John 10:17-18 — Jesus declares that no one takes His life from Him; He lays it down of His own accord and has the authority both to lay it down and to take it up again.

Devotional: These are among the most staggering words in all of Scripture. Every earthly power that conspired against Jesus — the mob, the governors, the religious leaders — believed they were in control. They were not. Christ acted freely, from love, under the authority of the Father. He chose the cross. He chose you. This is not a passive victim's story. It is the story of a king who wielded His greatest power through self-giving sacrifice. Rest today in the knowledge that your salvation was not an accident. It was a decision He made willingly.

Day 5: Authority That Rescues Reading: Matthew 28:18-20 — The risen Christ declares that all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Him, and He sends His disciples out under that authority to make disciples of all nations.

Devotional: The same authority that silenced critics, cleansed the temple, and conquered death is now directed toward one purpose — rescuing and gathering people to Christ. When His authority confronts your sin, your pride, or your carefully managed life, it is not coming to destroy you. It is coming to save you. He corrects, directs, and changes because He loves. The Great Commission is not a burden placed on reluctant shoulders. It is an invitation to participate in the mission of the One who laid down everything for rebels, cowards, and anxious planners — for you.