Jesus called the twelve, and began to send them out in pairs, giving them authority over unclean spirits. Mark 6:7
How do you imagine this exchange took place?
How did the disciples “receive”
authority?
Did Jesus hand them a badge or give then papers with proof authorization?
How did authority come to rest on the disciples?
I think that the only logical answer is that it came through the mere words of Jesus. The statement “I grant you authority” from someone who possess authority must be enough.
The Gospels state that Jesus granted His disciples authority for healing sickness and casting our demons several times. Why? Because disciples for generations to come would need to know that they are granted authority for doing the works of Jesus.
I am a disciple.
I have authority.
Jesus said so.
It’s that simple.
@KarlGessler And I'm at the same time talking to myself here - I long to see God move in my life as he did among the first disciples! To be ready to leave everything for the sake of the Kingdom, to heal the sick, cast out demons and preach the gospel so that peoples' lives are changed and they are free to live a holy life for God. Not be bound to sin anymore! (Rom. 6:7). To see God work in us and through us!
@KarlGessler correcting: not 70, but 72 disciples.
@KarlGessler authority before the Holy Spirit came upon them. I wonder what it was like... Did the enemy tell them they had no authority? Tell them they were foolish...
@KarlGessler So true! (And Jesus later sent out also 70 disciples with the exact same task!)
The disciples had not only been given authority, they had also seen Jesus do these things - and then Jesus sent them out to do the same. We don't see anyone do these things in our traditional churches today. When will we start obeying Jesus' words, also in this matter? Where are the leaders and believers who will obey Jesus words (not only believe them, but act!), and by doing so give an example to others to do the same? Because we all newborn believers have the same Holy Spirit as Jesus had (not more, not less)!