Authority Questioned
“Tell us,” they said, “by what authority are You doing these things, and who gave You this authority?” Luke 20:2 · Berean Standard Bible
They demand: 'Who gave You the authority to do these things? Tell us!' They want to corner Him — whatever He answers, they think they win.
It's a trap disguised as a question. If Jesus says God gave Him authority, they'll charge blasphemy. If He says anything else, they'll dismiss Him. Or so they think.
The religious leaders pose a carefully crafted question designed to put Jesus in an impossible position.
They march up with what they think is a checkmate question. Little do they know, Jesus is about to flip the whole board.
They demand to know by what authority (exousia) Jesus acts and who authorized Him. The double question targets both the nature and source of His authority, particularly His temple cleansing and daily teaching.
The authority question is both theological and political. Only the Sanhedrin could authorize temple activities. By challenging His authority, they imply Jesus is acting illegitimately and dangerously.
The religious leaders demand Jesus identify the source and nature of His authority.
They ask the question designed to trap Him: who gave you the right to do this? If Jesus claims divine authority, they'll call it blasphemy. If He claims human authority, they'll demand credentials He doesn't have.
1One day as Jesus was teaching the people in the temple courts and proclaiming the gospel, the chief priests and scribes, together with the elders, came up to Him.
2“Tell us,” they said, “by what authority are You doing these things, and who gave You this authority?”
3“I will also ask you a question,” Jesus replied. “Tell Me:
4John’s baptism—was it from heaven, or from men?”
Read all of Luke 20 — The religious leaders challenge Jesus' authority. He answers with a parable about murderous tenants that leaves them furious and afraid.
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