He spoke with authority - Sept 1
“They were astonished at his teaching because he spoke with authority.” Lk 4:32
I’ve long been intrigued by the use of “authority” in relation to Jesus and his followers found in the gospels. The topic of Jesus’ authority appears frequently and often in the context of people’s amazement and questioning of his authority. All these people puzzle where Jesus’ authority came from.
Authority is often conferred upon a person through their office or status. A military general has authority conferred upon him by the status of general. Authority can also be conferred through lineage; the king’s son inherits the authority of his father. Authority can also be earned through years of demonstrating one’s skills, knowledge, and wisdom, e.g. this employee has proven herself over years of service to deserve the promotion to the role of manager. I also know that my status as a white, educated male confers on me an authority that is often undeserved.
Jesus, it seems, has none of these claims to authority. He was the son of a carpenter, citizen of an oppressed nation, and early in his career. Nobody had any natural reason to pay him any attention. And yet, people from the commoners to the political leaders recognized Jesus’ authority. His authority came from his living, teaching, and acting completely within the will of God. What greater source of authority can there be than being in complete accord with the will of the one who create all?
Sometimes we confuse confidence for authority. We think someone has authority when they speak boldly, with great confidence, but confidence without the foundation of truth and power is simply bluster.
I pray that my own life, words, and actions be filled with the authority that comes from following the will of the one who rules over all.