Authority

When (Jesus) entered the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came to him as he was teaching, and said, “By what authority are you doing these things, and who gave you this authority?” Jesus said to them, “I will also ask you one question; if you tell me the answer, then I will also tell you by what authority I do these things. Did the baptism of John come from heaven, or was it of human origin?” And they argued with one another, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will say to us, ‘Why then did you not believe him?’ But if we say, ‘Of human origin,’ we are afraid of the crowd; for all regard John as a prophet.” So they answered Jesus, “We do not know.” And he said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things. ~ Matthew 21:23-27

What is authority?

Or rather, who has authority in your life?

Parents? Bosses? Law enforcement? Government leaders?

Each one of them has drawbacks. don't you think? No parent is perfect. Bosses either. Law enforcement? We've seen the videos of the abuse of power and violence they can be guilty of.

And I'm sure I don't even need to say anything about government leaders to get you nodding your head!

So what gives them their authority?

The chief priests and elders of the Temple thought they had the authority in all matters of faith. How could this young itinerant rabbi think he did?

Despite Jesus not telling them where his authority came from, we know the answer.

And we affirm and pray for that answer every time we pray the Lord's prayer.

"Your will be done." In many ways, that's the only prayer we need.

Jesus set about doing that very will of God, and so no-one could question his authority.

Your will be done. In me, in us, and always. Amen