Where does a leader get his or her authority?

Proverbs 21:1The king’s heart is like a stream of water directed by the Lord; he guides it wherever he pleases.

Romans 13:1-2Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished.

People in authority are in those positions though God’s direct or permissive will. They have no authority on their own but only by the grace of God. Good rulers and other authorities recognize that truth and act accordingly.

Matthew 28:18-20Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

John 19:11Then Jesus said, “You would have no power over me at all unless it were given to you from above. So the one who handed me over to you has the greater sin.”

All authority comes from God and is given for the sake of fulfilling responsibility and contributing to the welfare of God’s people and creation. Power is not given for its own sake, but for the sake of getting the right things done well. Leaders will answer to God for how they steward the authority entrusted to them.