The Rod of Authority
Jesus, the Good Shepherd, carries divine authority.
He holds both the rod of authority and the Shepherd's staff.
Matthew 28:18 (NIV)
"Then Jesus came to them and said, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.'"
The divine act of Jesus sacrificing Himself on the cross and shedding His blood for us was the ultimate demonstration of His love and redemption. In this selfless act, He secured salvation for you, and the cross became a transformative moment that forever altered the course of history and granted Him supreme authority over all realms.
He is the sovereign ruler and the Shepherd of His flock. He also holds the Shepherd's staff.
He rules with confident tenderness. He is compassionate and caring, firm yet loving, gentle yet bold, and keeps His loving eye on you while he guides you. His love is never passive. He is your caring Shepherd, active in your life, leading you beside still waters, bringing you comfort.
Our Sovereign King is all-powerful. He loves justice and mercy, hates hypocrisy, and only speaks the truth.
Psalm 23: 1-6
The Lord is my Shepherd. I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters. He refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths for his name's sake. Even though I walk
through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil,
for you are with me; your rod and your staff,
they comfort me. You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.
