Introduction

Good morning, Church! Today, we're going to dive deep into the Word of God and examine a powerful passage from the Gospel of Matthew. We’ll be talking about how Jesus is the ultimate authority. Now, this doesn't just mean that Jesus is an authority figure to be feared or revered, but rather that He is the authority we should be willingly submitting to, and the one we should be passionately following. Our discussion will revolve around resisting worldly authority and submitting to Jesus' authority.

As John Stott once said, "His authority on earth allows us to dare to go to all the nations. His authority in heaven gives us our only hope of success. And His presence with us leaves us no other choice."

Let's read the full scripture passage together:

"When he 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.'"

Let us pray.

Dear Lord, as we delve into Your Word today, open our hearts and minds to understand and apply the truths You've laid before us. Help us to realize the ultimate authority of Jesus in our lives, and guide us as we learn to submit to His authority, resisting the pull of worldly influences. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Alright, Church, let's get started!

Jesus is the Ultimate Authority

As we delve into the concept of Jesus as the ultimate authority, it's crucial to understand that this is not a position He assumed or was elected to, but rather a divine authority that He inherently possesses as the Son of God. This authority is not just over the physical world, but also over the spiritual realm. In Matthew 28:18, Jesus declares, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me." This is a clear assertion of His supreme authority over all creation, both seen and unseen.

Evident in His teachings: When Jesus spoke, He didn't quote other rabbis or scholars as was customary during His time. Instead, He spoke with His own authority, often prefacing His teachings with, "Truly I tell you..." or "I say to you...". This was a radical departure from the norm, and it left a profound impact on His listeners. The Gospel of Matthew records that the crowds were amazed at His teaching, "for He taught them as one having authority, and not as their scribes" (Matthew 7:29).

His power over sin and death: He forgave sins, something only God could do, and He resurrected from the dead, conquering death itself. His authority extends to the very fabric of our existence, offering us forgiveness and eternal life. This is an authority that no earthly power can match.

Not a domineering, oppressive force: It's an authority rooted in love, service, and sacrifice. Jesus, though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God as a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant (Philippians 2:6-7). His authority is exercised in serving others, healing the sick, feeding the hungry, and ultimately, giving His life for our sins.

Something to be embraced: It's an authority that brings freedom, not bondage; an authority that leads to life, not death. It's an authority that guides us, protects us, and empowers us to live a life that's pleasing to God.

A shift in our perspective: It means acknowledging that our own understanding and desires are not the ultimate guide for our lives. It means surrendering our will to His, trusting that His plans for us are far better than anything we could imagine. It's a daily process of dying to ourselves and choosing to live for Him.

Resisting Authority

Resisting authority is a concept that is deeply ingrained in our human nature ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO