Youcat commented through CCC – Question n. 375 – Part I.

YOUCAT Question n. 375 – Part I. How is authority exercised correctly?

(Youcat answer) Authority is exercised properly when it is understood according to Jesus’ example as service. It must never be arbitrary.   

A deepening through CCC

(CCC 2234) God's fourth commandment also enjoins us to honor all who for our good have received authority in society from God. It clarifies the duties of those who exercise authority as well as those who benefit from it. (CCC 2254) Public authority is obliged to respect the fundamental rights of the human person and the conditions for the exercise of his freedom.       

Reflecting and meditating 

(Youcat comment) Jesus showed us once and for all how authority should be exercised. He, the greatest authority, served others and took the last place. Jesus even washed the feet of his disciples (Jn 13:1-20). The authority of parents, teachers, educators, and superiors is given to them by God, not so that they can lord it over those who are entrusted to their care, but rather so that they might understand and exercise their duty of guiding and training as service.    

(CCC Comment)

(CCC 2235) Those who exercise authority should do so as a service. "Whoever would be great among you must be your servant" (Mt 20:26). The exercise of authority is measured morally in terms of its divine origin, its reasonable nature and its specific object. No one can command or establish what is contrary to the dignity of persons and the natural law.      

(This question: How is authority exercised correctly? is continued)