March 22nd, 2025

22nd March 2025


Pray (ACts)


Read (Exodus 20v12)


Message (Scott Woodburn)


The politician Lord John Dalberg-Acton once famously said that “absolute power corrupts absolutely.” We’ll never have absolute power but sometimes we will be required to act as superiors at home, church and society. How should we act when a position of authority comes our way? Simply refuse the temptation to become a tyrant.


There is something very seductive about having power over another person and there are countless examples of people using and abusing their authority. This should never be an option for the Christian who is required by the Lord to act graciously to those who He has placed in our care.


What is required of us when we are in a position of authority? We are to love, pray for and bless those who are below us in standing. We should instruct them with all wisdom, counsel them with all grace and challenge them when necessary. When our inferiors do well they should receive our praise and when they act poorly we shouldn’t be afraid to offer a rebuke. It is a violation of the fifth commandment to put our inferiors in danger, instead we should strive to protect them and provide for their needs. Indeed, if the Lord has placed us in a superior position we are to act and behave honourably, setting an example for those in our care and seeking the glory of God in how we lead, live and act.


The Lord does not require us to move to an island removing ourselves from the world. We long for heaven but while we wait we will take on various roles in human society. At times authority will be given to us, at other times we will be under the authority of superiors and quite often we will be on a level footing with those around us. The Lord is clear, irregardless of your position in life you are to live with gratitude to God. What does such a life look like? Honour your father and your mother.


Pray (acTS)


Sing


WSC


Q38 What benefits do believers receive from Christ at the resurrection? At the resurrection, believers, being raised up to glory, shall be openly acknowledged and acquitted in the day of judgment, and made perfectly blessed in the full enjoying of God to all eternity.