Steps to enhancing your Connections

Steps to enhancing your Connections in the lives of your nearby ones (plēsíon, neighbor as in Luke 10:29-37)—for the glory of Jesus Christ.

Step 1: You are Authorized

Jesus spoke with authority, (Matthew 28:18) so shall you since Jesus is the author and finisher of your faith. Gentle authority can be assuring and attractive to those around you who are hungry and thirsty for righteousness.

So, believe in your authority. It has been given to you through the authority of Jesus Christ. He proclaimed, If you believe, you can say to “this mountain be removed and cast into the sea…and it will be done.” (Mark 11:22–23)

Always, your authority is in your mouth and on your tongue (for good or bad). (Proverbs 18:21) We are seeking to speak the truth in love. (Ephesians 4:15)

Unlike religious perpetrators, we don’t flaunt our authority. We’re not here to rule over anyone. “Even as, the son of man did not come to be served but to serve…” (Matthew 20:28), so we are here to serve as the youngest, as the least and as the servant of all.

Be wary of those in the church, family, or team who grasp positions of authority. Our only authority is in Jesus Christ and in the word of God. Authority is not in any position, title, clothing, education, or human glory. It is existentially given in each humble Holy Spirit-filled moment.

Authority is not forced. “The servant of the Lord must not strive but be gentle unto all people.” We do not wrestle against flesh and blood. In Christ’s meekness, we do speak with authority to help people grow, to encourage them, and to comfort them.” (1 Corinthians 14:3)

Yes, “the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.” (James 3:18)

And, again, “Speaking the truth in love, we grow up…” (Ephesians 4:15)

Step 1. Believe in your Authority through the Anointed (the Messiah, the Christ) One.

Step 2: Authenticity

Prostitutes and tax collectors (Matt 21:31), along with children (Matthew 19:14) and their parents (Luke 18:15) were all attracted to Jesus of Nazareth. In our next episode, we’ll explore authenticity and how it is attractive to those who are hungry for loving truth and truthing love.

Giv’m heaven,

John Parker, Your Neighbor

Please write me at: Coachingparker@gmail.com

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