Behold, I give unto you power [authority] to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. . . . . — LUKE 10:19

The Greek word “exousia” means authority. However, it is often translated as “power” in the King James Version of the New Testament. In our text, for example, two different Greek words are translated as “power,” yet the correct translation of the first word is “authority.” Our verse should read, “I give you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy . . . .”

What is the difference between power and authority?

Well, what can one uniformed police officer do to direct the flow of rush hour traffic? He can do a great deal. Is it because the policeman has the power to hold back these mighty machines? No! His most strenuous efforts couldn’t stop the swiftly passing cars. He doesn’t have the power to do it, but he has something far better. He is invested with the authority of the government he serves. Even a stranger in the city recognizes this authority and obeys it.

Authority is delegated power.

Confession: I have been given authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall by any means hurt me.