Discover what the Bible teaches about the believer’s authority in Christ. Pastors, Dale & Rena Mae McDonald explain how born‑again believers can walk in spiritual authority, faith, and victory through Scripture.
The Believer’s Authority
By Dale & Rena Mae McDonald
Atlin Family Church
Welcome to Atlin Family Church. We are Pastors, Dale McDonald and Rena Mae McDonald, and today we are continuing an important teaching on the believer’s authority.
This message builds on our previous session, and we strongly encourage you to watch part one, if you have not already. What we are sharing is foundational for every born‑again believer—whether you are new to the faith or have been walking with the Lord for many years.
Why the Believer’s Authority Matters
The authority of the believer is one of the most misunderstood and least‑taught truths in the Church. Scripture tells us that in this world we will face trouble, but it does not stop there. Jesus has given us the authority to overcome that trouble.
If believers do not understand their authority, they will live no differently than unbelievers. We are called to be Christ‑like, and Jesus was never overcome by the world. He walked in authority until the moment He willingly laid down His life.
Through His obedience, Jesus reclaimed the authority Adam lost in the Garden of Eden—and He did not keep it for Himself. He gave it to the Church. As born‑again believers, we are part of that Church.
Authority Is a Gift, Not Something We Earn
The authority of the believer is not something we work for. It is not based on church attendance, position, or personal effort. It is a free gift, purchased by Christ and received by grace.
Salvation is more than a future promise of heaven. The moment we are born again, we are meant to experience the benefits of salvation now—including spiritual authority.
Authority Comes From Being United With Christ
Ephesians teaches us that the same power that raised Christ from the dead now works in us who believe. Jesus is the head of the Church, and we are His body. Spiritual authority was taken back from Satan for The Church, and He expects His body to operate in it.
The word “Christ” means the Anointed One and His anointing. Jesus could not be separated from the anointing, and neither can we as members of His body. That anointing is what enabled Him to heal the sick, cast out demons, and set people free—and it is the same power working through believers today.
Jesus Delegated His Authority
In Matthew 28, Jesus declared that all authority in heaven and on earth had been given to Him—and then He immediately told His disciples to go. This shows a clear transfer of authority.
We do not operate on our own strength. The Holy Spirit lives within us. We are one with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. When we speak and act in the name of Jesus, His authority is released into this world.
Real‑Life Example of Authority in Action
There are moments in life when there is no time to pray long prayers—only time to act in authority.
During a serious vehicle accident, a single spoken prayer—calling on the name of Jesus—completely changed the outcome. What should have been a tragic situation ended with no injuries and an opportunity to witness to another person.
Knowing your authority before the crisis comes is critical.
Authority Over the Enemy
In Luke 10, Jesus clearly states that He has given believers authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall by any means harm us.
This does not mean we act foolishly or test God, but it does mean that when life places us in dangerous situations, we can trust the authority given to us through Christ.
Seated With Christ
Ephesians 2 tells us that we have been raised up with Christ and seated with Him in heavenly places. This is our spiritual position.
We do not pray as beggars. We pray from a position of authority, confidence, and humility—knowing who we are in Christ.
The Purpose of Authority
The authority of the believer is not for control, manipulation, or personal status. It is given so we can:
- Continue the ministry of Christ
- Be a light to the world
- Speak to negative situations
- Bring healing, freedom, and restoration
Every negative situation ultimately traces back to the work of the enemy, and believers have authority to speak against it.
Faith and Authority Work Together
Faith is not a denomination or church affiliation. Hebrews tells us that faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen.
Faith grows as we hear and meditate on the Word of God. It is impossible to please God without faith, and faith must be exercised like a muscle.
Speaking to the Mountain
Jesus taught that we are to speak to the mountain—not ask God to move it for us. When we believe and do not doubt, the mountain must move.
We pray once in faith and then continue to speak words of agreement with God’s Word & thank Him for His Word until the situation changes. God’s Word is our prescription for life.
Healing and Authority
Scripture clearly teaches that believers will lay hands on the sick and they will recover. Healing is always God’s will. Sometimes healing is instant, and sometimes recovery takes time, but God’s power is always present.
God’s best for His people is health, provision, peace, strong families, and a fulfilled life.
Growing in the Word
We encourage every believer to spend time in Scripture daily—even if it is just one verse. The Word is God speaking directly to you.
For new believers:
- Start with the Book of John to understand God’s love
- Study Romans to understand salvation
- Read Acts to see how believers are meant to live
A Final Encouragement
Do not live powerless. Do not blame God for unanswered prayer when He has already given authority through His Word.
As you grow in understanding and faith, you will see fewer defeats and more victories. This is not theory—we have seen it work in real life.
We encourage you to meditate on these truths, apply them, and walk confidently in who God has called you to be.
Thank you for joining us.
If this ministry has helped you grow in faith, prayerfully consider supporting the work God is doing through Atlin Family Church by planting a financial seed or becoming monthly partners with this ministry.
Thank you — Pastors, Dale & Rena Mae McDonald