Who Has the Whistle?

Nº 424

Our obligation to love, honor and obey any being is in direct proportion to that being’s loveliness, honorableness and authority. Since God is of infinite loveliness, infinite honor and infinite authority our obligation to Him is infinite. - Jonathan Edwards

American football is underway. Pee-wee, high school, college, and professional teams are operating at full throttle. Players work all year to be the biggest, strongest, fastest, and toughest as they strive for starting roles and playing time. As teammates, they practice their skills, coordinate their assignments, and develop camaraderie to become the best team possible.

The most powerful person on the field is not the one with the biggest muscles, fastest times, or greatest skills. The most powerful person is the one in the striped shirt with the whistle.

Power that emerges from legitimate authority is true power. The authority entrusted to the referees allows them to override the strength and size of the players. The powerful players must follow the referee’s commands if they want to play the game.

Jesus said, All authority has been given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples. (Matthew 28:18b-19a)

Jesus has all authority, and He has given us a simple command: go and make disciples. A disciple is one who willingly follows and obeys the Master. As disciples of the One who has been given all authority, we should use our power to follow Him, obey Him, and encourage others to do the same.

Excelsior,

Dan Bolin

Author & President