THE AUTHORITY OF JESUS
Keywords 21:24-25a
Jesus replied, "I will also ask you one question.
If you answer me, I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things.
John's baptism--where did it come from? Was it from heaven, or from men?"
1. Jesus cleared the temple, healed the sick, and
taught in the temple. Not finding any fault in Jesus’ teaching
and work, the Jewish leaders confronted him on the matter of authority. To
their eyes, Jesus had no license to do what he was doing at the temple. But
Jesus’ authority came from God as John’s authority came from God. He worked and taught with
authority from God who approved his ministry. God gave Jesus all authority in
heaven and on earth (Mt 28:18). Everyone in heaven and on earth needs to submit
to him and believe in him. But as Adam ignored God’s authority and fell into sin, we, of the same blood,
have a rebellious nature like the Jewish leaders. We need to deny our pride and
to bring our thoughts and actions into captivity to the obedience of Christ
(2Cor 10:5).
2. To
help the religious leaders, Jesus told a story about a man’s two sons. Both sons had a rebellious nature. In the
end, the first son did what his father wanted although initially he rejected
his father’s request. The other one said yes at first but didn’t do what his father wanted. God knows that his
request is not easy. He also knows the rebellious nature embedded within us.
But he wants us to repent and turn our hearts back to him and his will. Many
are like the second son and the religious leaders, who say yes to God but
disobey him in the end.
Prayer Lord, help
me to submit to your authority.
One Word I will turn
and obey Jesus
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