What authority does Jesus have, according to Mark 11:28, over religious practices today? Setting the Scene Mark 11 finds Jesus entering Jerusalem, cursing the fruitless fig tree, and cleansing the temple. These dramatic acts provoke the chief priests, scribes, and elders. Mark 11:28: “By what authority are You doing these things?” they asked. “And who gave You the authority to do them?” What the Question Reveals • The leaders assume authority is delegated by human institutions. • They imply Jesus needs their permission to confront corrupt worship. • Their challenge highlights the clash between man-made religion and God’s appointed Messiah. Where Jesus’ Authority Comes From • Direct commission from the Father ‑ John 5:19 - 20 — the Son acts only as the Father shows Him. ‑ Matthew 3:17 — “This is My beloved Son.” • Fulfilled prophecy ‑ Malachi 3:1 — the Lord suddenly comes to His temple. ‑ Isaiah 56:7 — Jesus quotes this to defend His purification of the temple (Mark 11:17). • His resurrection vindication ‑ Romans 1:4 — declared to be the Son of God with power by the resurrection. • Universal scope ‑ Matthew 28:18: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” How That Authority Extends to Religious Practices Today 1. Worship • Jesus sets the pattern: prayerful, Scripture-centered, free of commercialism (John 4:23 - 24). • He alone defines acceptable sacrifice—fulfilled in His own cross (Hebrews 10:10-12). 2. Doctrine • Acts 2:42 — believers devote themselves to “the apostles’ teaching,” which is Christ’s teaching. • Galatians 1:8 — any gospel contrary to His is condemned. 3. Church Leadership • Ephesians 4:11-13 — pastors, teachers, and evangelists are gifts from the risen Christ, accountable to Him. • 1 Peter 5:4 — He is the “Chief Shepherd.” 4. Moral Authority • Mark 7:8-13 — Jesus overrules human tradition when it nullifies God’s word. • John 14:15 — love for Him is shown by obedience to His commands. 5. Discipline and Correction • Matthew 18:15-20 — church discipline is done “in My name,” under His delegated authority. 6. Mission • Matthew 28:19-20 — His authority propels the Great Commission; disciples obey because He reigns. Practical Outworking • Submit every church practice—liturgy, sacraments, finances, leadership structures—to His clear teaching. • Evaluate traditions by Scripture; keep what aligns with Christ, discard what does not. • Prioritize gospel proclamation and holy living, trusting the One who still cleanses His temple, the church (1 Corinthians 3:16-17). Key Takeaways • Jesus possesses divine, unrestricted authority; no human endorsement is required. • That authority governs worship, doctrine, leadership, morality, discipline, and mission. • Modern believers honor His authority by shaping every religious practice around His Word and His example. |
    |