How does Mark 11:28 challenge us to recognize Jesus' authority in our lives? Setting the Scene • In the days just after the Triumphal Entry, Jesus cleansed the temple and pronounced judgment on fruitless religion (Mark 11:15-19). • These bold acts could not be ignored by the temple establishment; they demanded to know His credentials. The Confrontation in Mark 11:28 “ ‘By what authority are You doing these things?’ they asked. ‘And who gave You the authority to do them?’ ” (Mark 11:28) What the Question Reveals about Jesus • His deeds presupposed absolute authority—something no mere rabbi could claim. • The leaders sensed that His authority was of a different order: divine, not delegated. • Their challenge inadvertently underscored the very truth they resisted: Jesus is the promised Messiah, Lord of the temple, Son of God. What the Question Reveals about Us • The same issue surfaces today whenever Christ’s commands confront personal preference. • Every heart will either submit to or resist His sovereign right to rule. • Recognizing His authority is not an abstract doctrine; it is an all-encompassing call to obedience. Recognizing Jesus’ Authority Today • Scripture declares His universal lordship: – “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” (Matthew 28:18) – “He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.” (Colossians 1:17) • Because His authority is total, it extends to: – Our beliefs—accepting His Word as final and without error. – Our morals—submitting lifestyle choices to His commands. – Our futures—yielding plans to His purposes (Proverbs 3:5-6). – Our worship—honoring Him with wholehearted devotion (Philippians 2:9-11). Practical Responses to His Authority • Daily submit to His Word: set aside time to read, believe, and obey. • Let Scripture correct and re-shape attitudes, speech, and decisions (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Cultivate humble dependence on the Holy Spirit, who empowers obedience (John 14:26). • Engage in visible acts of allegiance—baptism, fellowship, generosity, witness—for “faith without works is dead” (James 2:26). • Persevere when obedience is costly; His authority is worth every sacrifice (Revelation 2:10). Scriptural Reinforcements • John 1:1-3—His authority as Creator. • Hebrews 1:3—He upholds all things by His powerful word. • Revelation 1:17-18—He holds “the keys of Death and Hades.” • Luke 6:46—The inconsistency of calling Him “Lord” yet refusing to do what He says. Mark 11:28 reminds that the crucial issue is not whether Jesus has authority—Scripture affirms He does—but whether we will acknowledge and live under it. |
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