Let Us Answer 2 Questions About Jesus' Authority (Matthew 21:23-27)
Introduction:
1. On this occasion the Jewish leaders approached Jesus in the temple while He was teaching (vs.23a). 2. (vs.23b) They asked Jesus 2 questions concerning His authority. a. First, "by what authority doest thou these things?" b. Second, "who gave thee this authority?" 3. Rather than answer these questions, Jesus exposed the hypocrisy of the men who approached Him. 4. These questions are clearly answered in the Bible. 5. As we search the Scriptures, "let us answer these 2 questions about Jesus' authority." 6. A proper understanding of Jesus' authority and submission to it will clear up much of the confusion that exists in religion today. Discussion:
I. QUESTION #1: "BY WHAT AUTHORITY DOEST THOU THESE THINGS?"
A. Jesus claimed to have all authority (Matthew 28:18). B. In addition to claiming to have all authority, Jesus demonstrated His authority: 1. in His teaching (Matthew 7:28-29) 2. by calming the stormy sea (Matthew 8:23-27) 3. by forgiving a man's sins (Matthew 9:2-8) 4. by casting out unclean spirits (Mark 1:23-27) 5. by delegating authority to His apostles (Luke 9:1-2) 6. by His resurrection (Romans 1:4). C. Jesus' position reflects His authority. 1. Peter declared that Jesus is "by the right hand of God exalted" (Acts 2:33). 2. At God's right hand Jesus rules as the head of His church (Ephesians 1:22-23; Colossians 1:18). 3. Jesus is God's spokesman today (Hebrews 1:1-2). 4. Jesus is "King of kings, and Lord of lords" (1 Timothy 6:15; Revelation 19:16). II. QUESTION #2: "WHO GAVE THEE THIS AUTHORITY?"
A. (Matthew 28:18) Jesus said that all authority had been given to Him. B. In John 17:1-2 Jesus stated that the Father had given Him His authority. C. The Father identified Jesus as His "beloved Son" (Matthew 3:17; 17:5). Conclusion:
1. There are only two possible sources of authority in religion: heaven [the Lord] and men. 2. Submission to: a. man's authority is a serious mistake (Matthew 15:9) b. the Lord's authority results in a blessing (James 1:25). 3. Concerning everything that is said or done, we must submit to Jesus' authority (Colossians 3:17). 4. By letting the Lord's Word dwell in us richly in all wisdom, we will know what He wants us to say and do (Colossians 3:16). 5. Those who reject Jesus and His Word will pay the price (John 12:48). 6. (John 17) Jesus prayed that His followers would be one. 7. To fulfill the Lord's request let us submit to His authority.
