40 Days to the Cross - Day 4

Day 4 Jesus’ Authority

Scripture

Matthew 21:23-27 (HCSB) ²³ When He entered the temple complex, the chief priests and the elders of the people came up to Him as He was teaching and said, “By what authority are You doing these things? Who gave You this authority?” ²⁴ Jesus answered them, “I will also ask you one question, and if you answer it for Me, then I will tell you by what authority I do these things. ²⁵ Where did John’s baptism come from? From heaven or from men?” They began to argue among themselves, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will say to us, ‘Then why didn’t you believe him?’ ²⁶ But if we say, ‘From men,’ we’re afraid of the crowd, because everyone thought John was a prophet.” ²⁷ So they answered Jesus, “We don’t know.” And He said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.

Also in Mark 11:27-33; Luke 20:1-8

Devotion

Jesus spoke with authority. When someone has authority they usually do not have to prove it. It is interesting that WHAT Jesus was doing – the miracles, the teachings, the healings – were not questioned. It was His authority to do these things that was questioned. Imagine that! “I know you healed this guy and that is fine and good, but what give you the right?”

Jesus counters their question with a question. If they answer that John’s ministry was from heaven, then they have to admit that Jesus authority is also. They refuse to answer.

What about us? Do we question the work of God around us so much that we lose site of the importance of the ministry at hand? Have we ever been guilty of wondering why someone else has the “right” to do ministry or share Christ? We must acknowledge the work of Jesus when we see it. Let’s not be Pharisees!

Questions

What is our attitude by those who are of another denomination when we see God working there?

How can we support and love our brothers and sisters in Christ?

What can you do this week to build harmony with your Christian friends?

Prayer

Dear God: help us to stand strong with the authority of Jesus wherever we see Him at work! Amen