The Bridge-gate Scandal

Governor Chris Christie has recently been caught in a controversy known as Bridge-gate, where it was leaked that he abused his power as governor by shutting down a bridge in New Jersey to commuters because another politician was unwilling to fall in line with Christie.  Some people have been saying that if Christie is found guilty he could easily be impeached.  This scandal comes at a bad time because Christie is presumed to be the front runner for the GOP in 2016.  So I ask, what is there to be said about the abuse of power?  When, if ever, is it ok, to use one's authority or power for selfish gain? 

Well, when I look at the life of Christ, I would have to answer the question by saying never.  No one has more authority and more power than Jesus does.  Yet, when we look at His life in the New Testament gospels, we see that Christ actually never used his power for himself.  In fact, this abuse of power is one of the things that Satan tempted Jesus with when He was in the wilderness and on the cross.  But Christ did not fall victim nor entertain anything that Satan said.  In fact, when we look at Jesus' ministry, his power and authority was used to heal people and vindicate people.  And ultimately Jesus' power and authority was used for the salvation of all those who would believe in Him.  There are so many things He could have done for Himself.  Even at the cross, He could have changed His mind and responded to those who taunted Him.  Instead He used His power and authority to give up His life so that we would have one.  Then He got up from the grave so that we too can have hope after the grave.  If God were to ever be selfish, there's not a doubt in my mind that we would be lost.

(NASB) John 3:16 "“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life."