What is the meaning of Mark 11:29? I will ask you one question • The Lord narrows the discussion to a single, decisive issue. By framing it as “one question,” He strips away the religious leaders’ evasions and forces them to face truth (cf. Mark 12:37; John 18:37–38). • Jesus often used a single question to reveal hearts—see Luke 10:25–37, where one question brings out the parable of the Good Samaritan. • Here, the question will expose whether the chief priests and scribes will acknowledge divine authority or cling to self-preservation (Proverbs 29:25). • This reminds us that God’s Word pierces to “judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12). Jesus replied • The leaders had demanded, “By what authority are You doing these things?” (Mark 11:28). Jesus’ reply shows He is not intimidated; He speaks as the ultimate Authority (Matthew 28:18). • His calm response reflects Proverbs 15:1: “A gentle answer turns away wrath,” yet His words carry the weight of divine judgment (John 12:48). • The phrase underscores that Christ—God in flesh—personally answers human challenges. He is not distant but engaged, fulfilling Isaiah 1:18, “Come now, let us reason together.” and if you answer Me • Jesus conditions further revelation on their honesty. Truth rejected cannot be replaced by greater light (Psalm 18:26; Matthew 13:12). • Their ability to answer reveals their heart posture. If they refuse, it is not from lack of evidence but willful unbelief (John 5:39–40). • For believers, the principle endures: obedience to known truth opens the door to deeper understanding (John 7:17). I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things • The Lord links revelation to response. Had they admitted John’s baptism was from heaven (Mark 11:30–32), they would also have to accept Jesus’ authority, since John pointed to Him (John 1:29–34). • “These things” includes cleansing the temple (Mark 11:15–17) and miraculous works affirming Messiahship (Isaiah 35:5–6; Acts 2:22). • Christ’s authority is inherent, not borrowed: He speaks and acts as the Son of God (John 5:19–23). Their refusal to answer shows they reject God’s authority, not merely Jesus’ (Luke 7:29–30). summary Mark 11:29 reveals a Savior who lovingly but firmly confronts unbelief. By posing a single question, Jesus exposes hearts, demonstrates divine authority, and teaches that further light comes only to those willing to receive the truth already given. |
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