20 Bible Verses About Authority

I remember the first time I realized just how often the Bible speaks about authority. It wasn’t just a passing topic—it was woven into the very fabric of Scripture. From God’s sovereignty over creation to Christ’s dominion over the Church and the call for believers to submit to earthly governance, authority is portrayed as a divine structure meant for order and blessing.

Personally, when I read these verses about authority, I feel both comfort and conviction. Comfort, because I see that God holds all power and nothing can thwart His plan. Conviction, because it reminds me to respect those He has placed in positions of leadership—whether it’s my family, my church, or the governing bodies over me.

In this listicle, I’ve gathered 20 of my favorite Bible verses from the New King James Version (NKJV) that highlight the theme of authority. My hope is that as we read and reflect on them, we’ll come to a deeper understanding of the wonderful, God-ordained structure that helps guide our steps day by day.

20 Bible Verses About Authority

1. Matthew 28:18 (NKJV)
   “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.”
2. Romans 13:1 (NKJV)
   “Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities.”
3. Luke 10:19 (NKJV)
   “Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy…”
4. Titus 3:1 (NKJV)
   “Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work…”
5. Ephesians 6:1 (NKJV)
   “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.”
6. Daniel 4:35 (NKJV)
   “He does according to His will in the army of heaven and among the inhabitants of the earth…”
7. James 4:7 (NKJV)
   “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”
8. Acts 5:29 (NKJV)
   “We ought to obey God rather than men.”
9. 1 Peter 2:13 (NKJV)
   “Therefore submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake…”
10. Ephesians 1:21 (NKJV)
    “Far above all principality and power and might and dominion…”
11. Psalm 103:19 (NKJV)
    “The Lord has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all.”
12. Colossians 2:10 (NKJV)
    “And you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.”
13. Philippians 2:9-10 (NKJV)
    “Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name…”
14. 1 Corinthians 11:3 (NKJV)
    “But I want you to know that the head of every man is Christ…”
15. Revelation 5:13 (NKJV)
    “Blessing and honor and glory and power be to Him who sits on the throne…”
16. Matthew 16:19 (NKJV)
    “And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven…”
17. Hebrews 13:17 (NKJV)
    “Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive…”
18. Mark 1:27 (NKJV)
    “For with authority He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey Him.”
19. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 (NKJV)
    “Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers…be made for…all who are in authority…”
20. Deuteronomy 4:39 (NKJV)
    “Therefore know this day, and consider it in your heart, that the Lord Himself is God in heaven above and on the earth beneath…”

5 Ways to Apply These Bible Verses on Authority

1. Acknowledge God’s Sovereignty
   Start your day with prayer, recognizing that God holds ultimate authority over every aspect of life.
2. Respect Earthly Leaders
   Whether it’s your boss, government officials, or church elders, show respect for the positions of leadership God has allowed.
3. Examine Your Attitude
   Regularly check your heart for rebellion or pride. Ask God to help you submit joyfully to rightful authority.
4. Lead with Integrity
   If you hold any position of influence—at home, at work, or in ministry—lead in a way that reflects godly character and accountability.
5. Stand Firm in Spiritual Warfare
   Remember Christ’s victory. Use these verses as reminders that you have authority over spiritual darkness in His name.

I find that when I apply these principles, my walk with God becomes more secure and my relationships flow more peacefully. There’s a divine rhythm to life when we align ourselves properly under authority, both spiritual and earthly, and it brings stability to our everyday experience.

How Do Bible Verses About Discipleship Relate to Authority?

Bible verses on discipleship highlight the importance of authority in guiding believers. They demonstrate how Jesus empowered His followers to lead and teach others, emphasizing obedience and respect for spiritual leadership. Through these teachings, disciples learn to embrace their roles while honoring the divine authority that shapes their journey.

Conclusion

Looking back on these verses, I’m struck by the balance of both submission and leadership woven throughout Scripture. When I recognize God’s ultimate authority, I can more easily yield to the legitimate authority figures He has placed around me. At the same time, I’m reminded of my responsibility to exercise any authority I have in a Christlike, humble manner.

I hope this listicle inspires you as much as it does me. Authority, when understood and applied biblically, is truly liberating. It draws us closer to our sovereign God, anchors us in community, and helps us become better followers, leaders, and servants for His glory.