Matthew 21:23-32

“When he entered the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came to him as he was teaching, and said, ‘By what authority are you doing these things, and who gave you this authority?’” vs. 23

In general the people who heard Jesus teach in the course of his ministry didn’t question his authority. He didn’t belong to any particular school of thought or claim to follow some famous rabbi. He spoke from the heart and conveyed the truth through parables and metaphors. He didn’t need a stamp of approval from the religious leaders who controlled the temple. As a result, when he came to Jerusalem and started teaching in the temple those priests and elders were upset. They wanted to see his credentials, and Jesus refused to play their game.

We can’t blame the leaders for their questions. They were doing their jobs. We have the same high regard for credentials. Congregational councils take great care in checking the backgrounds of those they call to preach or teach. They ask for letters of accreditation.  There are just too many charlatans wandering around looking for opportunities to lead people astray. 

But sometimes we encounter people who speak and act with an authority that is not derived from any board or council and we know in an instant that they are authentic messengers of divine truth. We see it in their eyes and in their hearts. Like Jesus, they command our attention and enrich our lives. 

Thought for the Day: Why are religious people so easily fooled?