When Jesus gave the disciples “exousia,” which means “power to act, authority,” He gave them not only delegated authority and the right to act, but also the ability and capacity. Since Jesus had the authority to forgive sins, heal sicknesses, and cast out demons, what He passed along to His disciples was the power to function as He did. Jesus gave His followers this authority, and it has never been rescinded (John 14:12). Because He has delegated to us this privilege, it is now our responsibility to exercise it in His name.
The issue is certainly not to stomp on snakes and huge bugs, but to face the most fearsome works of hell and see them overcome in the power of God’s Spirit. As we use the power He has given us, “nothing shall by any means hurt you.” How much pain do we suffer because in fear or neglect we surrender this privilege to operate with such authority. The serpent will bite. The scorpion will sting. The enemy will attack. But as we use the power and authority He has given us, we will overcome the works of darkness.
