How should we respond when our faith is questioned, as in Matthew 21:23? Setting the Scene Matthew 21:23: “When Jesus had entered the temple courts, the chief priests and elders of the people came to Him. ‘By what authority are You doing these things?’ they asked. ‘And who gave You this authority?’” Observations from Jesus’ Encounter - The challenge targeted His authority, not merely His actions. - Jesus did not panic, debate aimlessly, or shrink back. - He responded in a way that revealed the challengers’ motives and upheld divine authority (vv. 24-27). Anchoring Our Response in Christ’s Authority - Confidence flows from knowing the Source: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me” (Matthew 28:18). - Our words carry weight when grounded in the clear teaching of Scripture rather than personal opinion. - Clarity about who commissioned us—Christ Himself—fortifies courage. Speaking with Wisdom, Not Combativeness - Jesus’ question about John’s baptism exposed hypocrisy without hostile argument. - 2 Timothy 2:24-25: “A servant of the Lord must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, and patient when wronged, instructing opponents with gentleness.” - Proverbs 15:1: “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Using Scripture as Foundation - 1 Peter 3:15: “Sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and respect.” - Hebrews 4:12 reminds that God’s word is “living and active,” able to pierce hearts more effectively than any clever argument. Letting Life Verify the Message - Matthew 7:20: “By their fruit you will recognize them.” - Observable obedience and love substantiate verbal testimony, silencing many doubts. Relying on the Spirit’s Empowering - Luke 12:11-12: “Do not worry about how to defend yourselves… for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that moment what you should say.” - Prayerful dependence ensures responses reflect God’s wisdom, not human impulse. Practical Takeaways - Stay rooted daily in Scripture to speak from overflow rather than scramble for words. - Respond calmly, aiming to reveal truth rather than win an argument. - Highlight Christ’s authority and resurrection as central proof points. - Maintain a gentle tone; leave room for the Spirit to convict. - Live consistently so that conduct undergirds confession. |
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