A question of authority
by Georgie Schuster
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[The chief priests, the scribes and the elders] said, ‘By what authority are you doing these things? Who gave you this authority to do them?’ (Mark 11:28).
Read Mark 11:27–33
There used to be a show on TV called Undercover Boss. Bosses would go ‘undercover’ in their own companies to investigate how things worked on the ground level. Many interesting conversations ensued, with workers having no idea of who they were talking with until the big ‘reveal’ at the end. It was a way for bosses to get in touch with the challenges they may not have been aware of and make improvements.
Jesus, however, knew exactly what was going on. He had ‘upset the apple cart’ in cleansing the temple, and the ‘authority figures’ demanded answers! They were intent on getting rid of him and wanted to know what authority this man was operating in.
Jesus chose to evade answering them at that moment, targeting their beliefs in the process. He could see their hearts and motives. He also knew that the timing wasn’t right. His time, though drawing very close, had not yet come. There were significant things to be done before the trial that eventuated several days later.
Jesus, the Son of God, would ultimately surrender his life to save the world. He had the authority and was, in fact, the only one who could! Even after the big reveal, when he rose victorious from the dead, there were some who still dismissed him … choosing to stay in the paradigms of authority they were accustomed to. But for all who would/will believe, Jesus’ authority over death and the devil is final and life-changing! That is authority worth living under!
Dear Jesus, to say you put up with a lot is probably the biggest understatement ever. But thank you for doing it. Thank you for being my Saviour. I praise and thank you for your amazing love. Thank you that I now get to live and serve you under your authority. In your name, I pray, Amen.
Georgie lives in Adelaide. She loves getting out into the country to experience God’s creation. She likes taking photos when she can. After teaching for many years, she now enjoys working in a church/school setting where she still gets to share stories about Jesus with children and families.
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