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The Authority of the Believer
John A. MacMillan (1873-1956) is considered the originator of the modern doctrine concerning the authority that a Christian believer has in Christ. This teaching has been used much by many churches, but is best known in the Pentecostal circles. It may be surprising that MacMillan was himself a Presbyterian, though he was heavily influenced by the likes of A. B. Simpson, Evan Roberts, and Jessie Penn-Lewis. This teaching is sound, solid, and relevant for today! If ever we as the church needed to understand who we are in Christ, that time is now.
This book is composed of articles published in The Alliance Weekly, which came in two series: the first being The Authority of the Believer, and the second The Authority of the Intercessor.
From the foreword:
The rapidly approaching end of the age is witnessing a tremendous increase in the activity of the powers of darkness. Unrest among the nations, more intense than at any previous time in earth's history, is due largely to the stirring up of the ambitions and passions of men, while the spread of an almost wholly secularized education is quietly doing away with the scriptural standards which formerly exerted a restraining influence among the so-called Christian peoples. Our wealth and social culture have not made us thankful to the Giver of all good, but have centered us upon the material things of the world, and have produced a self-sufficiency that quite ignores our dependence upon the Creator of all. Godlessness, which we have condemned so strongly in the Soviet Union, is almost equally as pronounced, though less blatant, in our own land.
These conditions are reacting strongly upon the great ministry of the Church of Christ, the giving of the gospel to the heathen world. War has closed many doors in foreign lands, and at the same time has cut off financial contributions in not a few countries which formerly took an active interest in missions. More serious still is the attitude of large sections of the church towards the state of the heathen. No longer are these concerned about the lost souls which wander in darkness; their thought is centered on raising their social status and meeting their intellectual and physical needs. They seek, in their own jargon, to "build a better world," but the world they envision is one without a Savior. Christ, in their view, has degenerated into a Superman, an example which in their own feeble strength they seek to follow. To meet the situation, the Church of Christ needs a new conception of prayer. The urgent call is for men and women, wholly yielded to the Lord, whose eyes have been enlightened to see the ministry in the heavenlies to which they have been called. Such believers, whether as intercessors, or as workers at home, or missionaries on the foreign fields, may in union with the great Head of the Body, exercise an authority to which the powers of the air must give place wherever challenged.
The Table of Contents are as follows:
Chapter One: The Authority of the Believer
Chapter Two: The Divine Purpose Of The Ages
Chapter Three: The Qualifications For Authority
Chapter Four: The Practical Exercise of Authority
Chapter Five: The Authority of the Intercessor
Chapter Six: The Victory of the Believer's Countenance
Chapter Seven: Victory Over Spiritual Conflict
For more of the best Christian books ever written, visit our website at JawboneDigital.com
This book is composed of articles published in The Alliance Weekly, which came in two series: the first being The Authority of the Believer, and the second The Authority of the Intercessor.
From the foreword:
The rapidly approaching end of the age is witnessing a tremendous increase in the activity of the powers of darkness. Unrest among the nations, more intense than at any previous time in earth's history, is due largely to the stirring up of the ambitions and passions of men, while the spread of an almost wholly secularized education is quietly doing away with the scriptural standards which formerly exerted a restraining influence among the so-called Christian peoples. Our wealth and social culture have not made us thankful to the Giver of all good, but have centered us upon the material things of the world, and have produced a self-sufficiency that quite ignores our dependence upon the Creator of all. Godlessness, which we have condemned so strongly in the Soviet Union, is almost equally as pronounced, though less blatant, in our own land.
These conditions are reacting strongly upon the great ministry of the Church of Christ, the giving of the gospel to the heathen world. War has closed many doors in foreign lands, and at the same time has cut off financial contributions in not a few countries which formerly took an active interest in missions. More serious still is the attitude of large sections of the church towards the state of the heathen. No longer are these concerned about the lost souls which wander in darkness; their thought is centered on raising their social status and meeting their intellectual and physical needs. They seek, in their own jargon, to "build a better world," but the world they envision is one without a Savior. Christ, in their view, has degenerated into a Superman, an example which in their own feeble strength they seek to follow. To meet the situation, the Church of Christ needs a new conception of prayer. The urgent call is for men and women, wholly yielded to the Lord, whose eyes have been enlightened to see the ministry in the heavenlies to which they have been called. Such believers, whether as intercessors, or as workers at home, or missionaries on the foreign fields, may in union with the great Head of the Body, exercise an authority to which the powers of the air must give place wherever challenged.
The Table of Contents are as follows:
Chapter One: The Authority of the Believer
Chapter Two: The Divine Purpose Of The Ages
Chapter Three: The Qualifications For Authority
Chapter Four: The Practical Exercise of Authority
Chapter Five: The Authority of the Intercessor
Chapter Six: The Victory of the Believer's Countenance
Chapter Seven: Victory Over Spiritual Conflict
For more of the best Christian books ever written, visit our website at JawboneDigital.com
45 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 1997
251 people are currently reading
194 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
January 22, 2023
I heard of this book when I was in college, but I never got the chance to read through it until now.
I had to give it a 4 instead of a 5 because it his writing style was a little difficult to understand, but I understood his main thrust- that believers are in union with the exalted Christ, and have delegated authority over the devil and his work. This delegation of authority is not us having authority in and of ourselves. Ask the sons of Sceva in Acts 19- they tried to exercise authority over demons, but they couldn’t because they had no living union with Christ in salvation.
Neither is this a “name it and claim it” concept of the Pentecostals and Charismatics. Rather, as we walk in the Spirit, seeking God to destroy the devil’s foothold in people and in difficult situations, we can stand against his wiles by claiming our union and authority in Christ against him. Perhaps our churches would have more power in prayer if they knew how much authority they have in Christ over the enemy. Is there a wrestling in spiritual warfare? Yes. However, when we pray we need to rest in the reality that Christ won the victory, embarrassing the devil at Calvary (Col. 2:15)!
I had to give it a 4 instead of a 5 because it his writing style was a little difficult to understand, but I understood his main thrust- that believers are in union with the exalted Christ, and have delegated authority over the devil and his work. This delegation of authority is not us having authority in and of ourselves. Ask the sons of Sceva in Acts 19- they tried to exercise authority over demons, but they couldn’t because they had no living union with Christ in salvation.
Neither is this a “name it and claim it” concept of the Pentecostals and Charismatics. Rather, as we walk in the Spirit, seeking God to destroy the devil’s foothold in people and in difficult situations, we can stand against his wiles by claiming our union and authority in Christ against him. Perhaps our churches would have more power in prayer if they knew how much authority they have in Christ over the enemy. Is there a wrestling in spiritual warfare? Yes. However, when we pray we need to rest in the reality that Christ won the victory, embarrassing the devil at Calvary (Col. 2:15)!
December 21, 2024
Amazing book. Informative and eye opening. I was enthralled with the contents. And even though I just finished it I'm planning to start it again (never done that before).
Highly recommended to every Christian seeking to find the answers to questions pertaining to the workings of the powers of darkness and the authority over them.
Highly recommended to every Christian seeking to find the answers to questions pertaining to the workings of the powers of darkness and the authority over them.
March 2, 2025
My aunt gave this book to my father. When she passed in 2020, he gave it to me. I’m just now reading this and I wish I had read it much sooner.
2 books in 1, this book is a blessing and I’m so glad I have a physical copy to highlight and write notes in.
I was reminded of my authority as a believer in the first part of the book and some things I thought were “weak” (thinking commands instead of speaking them aloud), were assured to me that they were not “weak.” It’s the simple fact that I have that authority that matters.
The second part of the book “Encounter of Darkness,” was eye opening and a reminder of what had been deemed “normal” in today’s world. Today, demonic possession is medicated and simply described as “mental health issues.” But the believer knows the true problem.
I enjoyed the examples of demonic possession. Some of the examples even made me think of situations I’ve seen for myself.
I also enjoyed how it was noted that fear of the supernatural is natural. It gave examples of when Saul saw Jesus. Which reminded me of why Angels say, “don’t be afraid.” It’s natural to be afraid of the supernatural, but when it comes to demonic possession, in particular, we must know our authority to cast the wrong side of the supernatural out.
I’m grateful to have had this book passed down to me and to have finally read it.
2 books in 1, this book is a blessing and I’m so glad I have a physical copy to highlight and write notes in.
I was reminded of my authority as a believer in the first part of the book and some things I thought were “weak” (thinking commands instead of speaking them aloud), were assured to me that they were not “weak.” It’s the simple fact that I have that authority that matters.
The second part of the book “Encounter of Darkness,” was eye opening and a reminder of what had been deemed “normal” in today’s world. Today, demonic possession is medicated and simply described as “mental health issues.” But the believer knows the true problem.
I enjoyed the examples of demonic possession. Some of the examples even made me think of situations I’ve seen for myself.
I also enjoyed how it was noted that fear of the supernatural is natural. It gave examples of when Saul saw Jesus. Which reminded me of why Angels say, “don’t be afraid.” It’s natural to be afraid of the supernatural, but when it comes to demonic possession, in particular, we must know our authority to cast the wrong side of the supernatural out.
I’m grateful to have had this book passed down to me and to have finally read it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 8, 2018
This was the 96 page version, not 192 page version. And I'm glad it was. I don't think I could have lasted all 192 pages. I barely made it through! I had to read it aloud, it was often too dense for me, too wordy. I found myself often disagreeing with some Scriptural interpretations but this was a good reminder that we have the authority of Christ and I need to use it! I want to stop being afraid of my authority that has been given me from God. I want to be bolder and following through on every plan he has for me. I would give the book 3 stars. I borrowed it from Dave and Darlene at least one year ago so I decided to just get through it haha. When I read it aloud I realized it wasn't as complicated as it seemed with all those words. :) There were some great quotes though, which I recorded in my "I would rather be reading" notebook.
February 6, 2008
This is another Christian classic that has been the basis for other books written on the same subject. This is another book that should be on the must read list of very Christian believer. The Believer's Authority along with Healing are two subjects that Christians cannot afford to be passive about.
August 15, 2012
This is a C&MA author on our authority in Christ. I read this over 20 years ago and I am now rereading it because of spiritual warfare that we are experiencing. I would recommend this and Charles Kraft's book on the subject to anyone.
August 30, 2010
Excellent source of Wisdom. A must for all new believers.
June 21, 2012
Every intercessor needs this book as a part of their library. It lays out and clearly explains the position we as believer's should take in heavenly places with Christ Jesus. A must read!!!
March 20, 2014
Power packed little book. I'm all about knowing my authority in God. This book fueled my warring prayers life.
January 5, 2016
Must read for every Jesus follower in this end time.
Not exactly an easy read but very meaty. A must read. Life changing for how you pray when you realize your position in God.
Not exactly an easy read but very meaty. A must read. Life changing for how you pray when you realize your position in God.
October 10, 2025
Good book, IMPORTANT TOPIC
While I'm educated and a highly proficient reader I found this book a little difficult to read. The language used was more complicated than easily flowing. I think the topic is highly important and this book contains valuable knowledge that every believer needs to understand. That being said for an average reader it may be hard to follow, but I encourage you to try.
While I'm educated and a highly proficient reader I found this book a little difficult to read. The language used was more complicated than easily flowing. I think the topic is highly important and this book contains valuable knowledge that every believer needs to understand. That being said for an average reader it may be hard to follow, but I encourage you to try.
November 26, 2021
Great Spiritual Insights on Authority in Spiritual Matters
This book directs your attention to the unseen world and Christs victorious work on the cross and all the implications for interacting in the spiritual realm and the unseen. Very good treatment of the authority of Jesus that is shared with those united with Him.
This book directs your attention to the unseen world and Christs victorious work on the cross and all the implications for interacting in the spiritual realm and the unseen. Very good treatment of the authority of Jesus that is shared with those united with Him.
April 9, 2022
Questioning authority?
A book reflecting the strength of believer authority written during the years of war. Finally published in 1934
Today's Believer will profit from lessons learned in yesteryear.
There is comfort for those who can grasp the Truth to be found in God given authority as represented in this little book.
A book reflecting the strength of believer authority written during the years of war. Finally published in 1934
Today's Believer will profit from lessons learned in yesteryear.
There is comfort for those who can grasp the Truth to be found in God given authority as represented in this little book.
September 19, 2019
Lot's of very good nuggets of wisdom in this book, but it wasn't an easy read. It was very wordy and not well written. And used a lot of antiquated language. Definitely required my Master's degree to understand. ;)
July 20, 2020
Needed Today
Believers need to rise up against the powers and principalities arrayed against them. We have the authority through Christ. MacMillan clearly explains how this can be accomplished.
Believers need to rise up against the powers and principalities arrayed against them. We have the authority through Christ. MacMillan clearly explains how this can be accomplished.
February 5, 2021
MacMillan expertly unpacks our authority as a believer. It's filled with powerful revelation. This book is a valuable resource.
Recommend to believer who want understanding of their authority given by Christ.
I borrowed a copy from a friend. All views are my honest opinion.
Recommend to believer who want understanding of their authority given by Christ.
I borrowed a copy from a friend. All views are my honest opinion.
October 23, 2021
The author was a missionary in China and the Philippines in the 1920s. This volume contains three of his writings that were originally published as pamphlets. This volume is a valuable resource for the believer.
June 10, 2022
Detailed description of the authority we have as believers in Jesus Christ to do spiritual warfare And to use our authority effectively to combat against Spiritual Forces 4 our family In our community
December 29, 2022
You will learn who you are in Christ
You will be able stand victoriously in Christ against the accuser ever time. You do not fight to win, you stand in victory! Christ has already won.
You will be able stand victoriously in Christ against the accuser ever time. You do not fight to win, you stand in victory! Christ has already won.
December 20, 2018
A excellent book to read for Spiritual Growth. Do you know who’s you are and who you are? I am on my second time reading it this year.
March 24, 2019
The author seeks to convince the reader that Christian believers have the authority to condemn and bind the works of satanic forces. He bases his thesis on Scriptures.
February 16, 2020
Excellent resource
Read as complement to book of Ephesians. Insightful and strengthening in understanding our authority and security in Christ by God.
Read as complement to book of Ephesians. Insightful and strengthening in understanding our authority and security in Christ by God.
April 18, 2020
Great read! We are given step by step biblical instruction of who we are in Christ, why authority has been given to us, and how to use it.
July 20, 2021
The content is good, but this edition is only a fraction of the book. The language is a bit older, but if you can get past that, the information is quite informative.
October 20, 2016
I read this on the recommendation of a friend in ministry. While there are nuggets to be gleaned, I found the book overall to be unhelpful. Most of the material is supported by proof texts, texts lifted out of their context to enhance the author's viewpoint. That is a style that I do not connect with well.
I have read similar books on this subject over the years, notably, "Destined for the Throne" by Paul Billheimer. Although I do not dispute the basic premise of these books, I feel that they present an unbalanced view of spiritual authority. Mark me as "skeptical" of many of the claims made by the authors, supported by snippets of Bible quotes liberally sprinkled throughout the text. Three stars might be too high for the rating of this book.
I have read similar books on this subject over the years, notably, "Destined for the Throne" by Paul Billheimer. Although I do not dispute the basic premise of these books, I feel that they present an unbalanced view of spiritual authority. Mark me as "skeptical" of many of the claims made by the authors, supported by snippets of Bible quotes liberally sprinkled throughout the text. Three stars might be too high for the rating of this book.
November 21, 2016
NEEDED DESPERATELY!!!
Every believer needs to read this book. It has reinforced my belief that the enemy of our soul is increasing the attack against every believer needs in any way he can on the age in which we live and it seems as though the believers are sitting back and letting him win!!! We need to dog our heels in and do what Jesus has commissioned us to do and put on the whole armour of God and commit ourselves wholly to God and resist the devil and push him back to where he belongs and take authority against him!!!!!!!!
Every believer needs to read this book. It has reinforced my belief that the enemy of our soul is increasing the attack against every believer needs in any way he can on the age in which we live and it seems as though the believers are sitting back and letting him win!!! We need to dog our heels in and do what Jesus has commissioned us to do and put on the whole armour of God and commit ourselves wholly to God and resist the devil and push him back to where he belongs and take authority against him!!!!!!!!
September 16, 2017
Deep spiritual truth here. A small book, but go slowly. Drink deep. Believer, you will learn things that are not being widely taught today. Enjoy!
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews