By Andrew Williams – July 26, 2022
Jesus told them, I will ask you a question. Answer Me, and then I will tell you by what [sort of] authority I do these things. Was the baptism of John from heaven or from men? Answer Me.
Mark 11:29-30 AMPC
Good morning fellow disciples.
Authority is defined as “the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience.”
The chief priests, scribes and elders had just asked Jesus who authorized Him to do what He has been doing. They were the ones who had the designated authority in the Jewish religion and nation. Everyone knew this to be true.
However:
Not everyone who is in a recognized position of authority deserves it.
Not everyone who is in a recognized position of authority is walking submitted to the one who gives them the authority.
Not everyone who is in a position of authority has an abiding relationship and deep fellowship with the ones who authorized them.
“Jesus told them, I will ask you a question. Answer Me, and then I will tell you by what [sort of] authority I do these things.”
Jesus knew who authorized Him. He could easily tell them, but as was His custom, He answered their questions with a question.
“Was the baptism of John from heaven or from men?”
This was a profound question! The answer that they would give would reveal these authorized men’s relationships with God. Jesus would know, they would know and, the crowd would know.
“Answer Me.”
Even though this isn’t a command {by virtue of the lack of the exclamation mark}, I would like to think that Jesus said it in such a way that showed His authority!
Authority is defined as “the power or right to give orders. Answer me sounds like an order.
As you examine yourself and those in authority around you, ponder this question: “Am I, or my leaders submitted to the one who authorized me/them?”
Prayer: Father God, through Jesus You have authorized me to be a Kingdom disciple. I sometimes feel as if I don’t deserve the grace You have poured out on me. At times I don’t walk surrendered to You and, my fellowship and relationship with You is broken.
You are my God! You are my ultimate authority!
I will obey Your orders, I will submit to Your decisions and, I will obey You! Amen.