The Authority Of Jesus Series

Dr. Bradford Reaves

Crossway Christian Fellowship

Hagerstown, MD

www.mycrossway.org

Today is the conclusion to our study on the Sermon on the Mount. Over the last several months (36 individual sermons), we have covered some of the most powerful words ever spoken. They are the words of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. They are meant to inspire, challenge, and invite you to be a part of God’s eternal kingdom. Yet, words do not hold as much meaning if we do not understand the authority of the speaker. Such is the case of the original hearers of Jesus’ sermon.

Maybe you, too, have considered the question, or maybe you are already settled with the fact that what was spoken was of divine origin. However, I think it is necessary that we stop and ask the question, “By what authority does Jesus have to say these things in the first place?” Whether you have it settled in your mind and soul of the Lordship of Christ this morning, I want us to leave here completely resolved of his authority. That kind of understanding has the power to transform you. Especially in these days when we are witnessing incredible events, such as with the Middle East, I dare say it is imperative you have a clear understanding of the authority of our Lord. Before we do that, let me read the last two verses of Matthew 7:

And when Jesus finished these sayings, the crowds were astonished at his teaching, 29 for he was teaching them as one who had authority and not as their scribes. (Matthew 7:28–29)

The word ‘authority’ is really a strong word, and it is filled with meaning that should bring strong emotion. There is a certain commanding force or weight behind the word that can even carry a level of intimidation with it. With the right circumstances, authority can be reassuring to us of command and protection. I remember several times as a State Trooper coming into a situation of lawlessness and chaos and taking authority over that situation to bring calm and peace. On the flip side, authority can have a connotation of abuse. For instance, a governing figure who abuses his authority with oppression. One day, the Antichrist will be given authority to rule over the world, but that authority will be used for tremendous evil.

There are two sides to authority. There is the command of power, but there is also the idea of permission and submission to those under the one in authority. It denotes privilege; it denotes power; it denotes rule, control, and influence. When someone has authority, that means they’re on top of other people. They have a responsibility beyond the norm. They can determine things, decide things, render judgments, and wield certain rights and privileges.

So when Jesus finishes his sermon to the crowds, they are astonished and marvel at what they have just heard. As Jesus concluded his message, I can imagine there was a hush over the area as people took in the truths poured upon them. Now, in reality, there should be no amazement. There should not be any sense of astonishment. None at all. Why? Because it is the Messiah who is speaking. This was no rabbi off the street or a scribe from the Temple, this was the Messiah. He already has the authority, it is the Jewish people who haven’t submitted to that authority. And really, this is my prayer for us and the church today: that we have an understanding of the authority we all can or do live under through Jesus Christ. Sadly, many still live apart from that authority. Yes, Jesus made it clear to the Church in the Great Commission:

And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18–20)

Everywhere Jesus went, he went, already possessing the authority to say whatever he needed to say and do whatever he needed to do. It was already his to possess, but the Jewish leaders and people failed to recognize that so that they could put themselves under the headship of that authority. This should be the most astonishing and scandalous part of the Bible because God had made it clear and plain to them about the Messiah's first coming.

One day, as Jesus was teaching the people in the temple and preaching the gospel, the chief priests and the scribes with the elders came up 2 and said to him, “Tell us by what authority you do these things, or who it is that gave you this authority.” 3 He answered them, “I also will ask you a question. Now tell me, 4 was the baptism of John from heaven or from man?” 5 And they discussed it with one another, saying, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will say, ‘Why did you not believe him?’ 6 But if we say, ‘From man,’ all the people will stone us to death, for they are convinced that John was a prophet.” 7 So they answered that they did not know where it came from. 8 And Jesus said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.” (Luke 20:1–8)