You have authority!  Due to Authority God Himself has given you — yes, you have power over the enemy. The Greek word “exousia” means authority.  However, it is often translated as “power” in the New Testament King James translation.

For example, in our text, two different Greek words are translated as “power” — yet the correct translation of “power” is “authority.”

Power and authority are two completely different things!  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 authority and power?

Let’s think — can one uniformed police officer direct the flow of speeding morning traffic?  He can do a great deal.  Does the policeman have the “power” to hold back those speeding vehicles?  No! He has the “authority”!  His most strenuous efforts of “power” could never stop the speeding passing cars.

He doesn’t have the power to do it, but he has something far far better. He has the “authority/” — He is given the authority by the government he serves. Even a stranger in the city recognizes this authority obeying it.

Authority is delegated — authority delegates — uses authority as power.  Almighty God has given you His Authority over all the power of the enemy!  Use your Authority!