From the sermon preached on June 15, 2025
Spiritual authority is the delegated power given to believers to act in the name of Jesus Christ, allowing them to shift atmospheres and break strongholds not through their own strength, but through the Holy Spirit. According to Pastor Rich Romero, this authority is not about controlling God, but about partnering with Him to bring times of refreshing and miraculous change to broken situations.
What does the Bible say about Spiritual Authority?
Pastor Rich Romero explains that acting in Jesus’ name means acting with His backing. It is not using the name of Jesus as a magic word or a ritual, but understanding that we have been deputized to represent the King.
However, there is a crucial distinction to make. Having authority does not mean we “boss God around” 5. We cannot command God to do our will; rather, we speak to situations—like sickness, anxiety, or lack—and command them to align with God’s will. This allows us to pray with boldness rather than hesitation.
What is the significance of "The Beautiful Gate"?
The setting of this miracle is not accidental. The Bible notes that the lame man was laid daily at a specific location: The Beautiful Gate.
Historically, this gate was known as the Eastern Gate. It was made of Corinthian bronze that shone so brightly in the sun it looked like gold. Pastor Rich points out a powerful contrast in this scene: a broken, suffering man sitting directly in front of a majestic, beautiful structure.
This is a relatable picture for many families today. We often present a “Beautiful Gate” to the world—a perfect Instagram feed, a nice car, or a put-together appearance—while internally, we feel broken, paralyzed, or spiritually lame. We are close to the things of God (the temple), but we are still stuck outside, begging for scraps that cannot satisfy us. The story of Acts 3 teaches us that God wants to move us from sitting outside the beautiful gate to walking inside His presence.
How can I develop Expectant Faith?
Do you pray with the expectation that something will actually happen? Or do you pray as a routine?
When Peter approached the lame man, he didn’t just casually walk by. He said, “Look at us”. The Bible says the man fixed his attention on them, expecting to receive something.
Expectant faith is described by Pastor Rich as the “breeding ground for miracles”. Peter’s faith wasn’t passive; it was active and vocal. He took a risk. He extended his hand before the man was even healed.
For parents and believers today, this challenges us to shift our posture. Instead of praying from a place of defeat (“God, if you can…”), we are invited to pray from a place of victory (“God, I thank you that you are…”). We must trust God’s sovereignty while boldly expecting His goodness.
What are "Times of Refreshing" and how do I get them?
One of the most comforting concepts in this sermon is found in Acts 3:19, where Peter tells the crowd to repent so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord.
Many people cringe at the word “repent” because they associate it with punishment or condemnation. However, Pastor Rich reframes repentance as a beautiful invitation. It simply means to change your mind and turn around.
- The World’s View: Repentance = Shame and Guilt.
- The Bible’s View: Repentance = Refreshment and Relief.
If you are an exhausted parent or a weary believer, you don’t need another self-help book; you need the presence of God. Turning to Him wipes away the spiritual fatigue and brings a renewal that sleep alone cannot provide.
Why is my Christian Witness more valuable than wealth?
There is a famous story about Thomas Aquinas and Pope Innocent II.
The Pope, showing Aquinas the vast riches of the church, remarked, “No longer can the church say, ‘Silver and gold I have none.'” Aquinas replied, “True, but neither can she now say, ‘Arise and walk'”.
This warning reminds us that material comfort can sometimes dull our spiritual power. The greatest gift you can give your children or your neighbors is not financial security, but your Christian witness (testimony).
Pastor Rich outlines the parallels between the lame man’s physical healing and our spiritual salvation. This comparison helps us understand the power of our own story:
| The Lame Man (Acts 3) | The Sinner (Spiritual Reality) |
| Lame from birth | Born into sin (descendants of Adam) |
| Poor and begging | Spiritually bankrupt before God |
| Outside the temple | Separated from God’s presence |
| Healed immediately by grace | Saved immediately by faith |
| Entered the temple praising God | Reconciled to the Father |
Your story of how Jesus moved you from “outside” to “inside” is a miracle. As Pastor Rich asks, “When was the last time you shared your story with somebody?”. You don’t need to be a theologian; you just need to be a witness of what you have seen and heard.
Conclusion: You Have Something to Give
You might feel like you don’t have enough time, money, or patience. You might say, “Silver and gold I have none.” But if you are in Christ, you have faith, authority, power, and a testimony.
The world is full of people sitting by “Beautiful Gates” who are broken inside. They don’t need your money; they need your Jesus. Today, embrace your spiritual authority. Stop building your own kingdom and start establishing His. As you do, you will find the times of refreshing your soul has been longing for.
Frenquently Asked Questions
What does "Acts 29" mean?
The Book of Acts in the Bible ends at chapter 28. Pastor Rich Romero uses the term “Acts 29” to describe the modern church. It signifies that the story isn’t over; believers today are continuing the work of the apostles, living out the “next
chapter” of signs, wonders, and miracles empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Is spiritual authority the same as controlling God?
No. In the sermon, Pastor Rich clarifies that we do not “boss God around.” Spiritual authority is a delegated power to speak to situations (like sickness or mountains) in the name of Jesus, while submitting to the sovereign will of God.
How can I share my Christian witness without it being awkward?
You don’t need to preach a sermon. Pastor Rich suggests simply sharing your personal story of what God has done for you. Whether in a locker room, a coffee shop, or at work, testifying to the goodness of God in your own life is the most powerful “offense” a believer has.
