"Authority"

Mark 1:21-28

Pastor Tom Johnson, February 1, 2015

 “They were astounded at his teaching, for [Jesus] taught them as one having authority.”

The word authority is mentioned several times in our Gospel reading as something that sets Jesus apart. Authority means not just a working knowledge but a mastery of the material. Jesus is a biblical scholar. Authority indicates a good communicator. Jesus is able to convey meaning clearly. He breaks things down. He simplifies things without compromising the depth of truth. He illustrates and he tells stories. Authority carries with it the idea of power. Jesus does not speak mere empty words but has a direct connection with the Creator of the universe to act on that truth. Jesus is the Word; all things were made through him. He sustains the universe by his power. Authority can mean a potential advocate or a formidable adversary. Jesus is on our team. He is working for the underdog. He is on our side. “If God is for us, who can be against us?” scripture says. He lives, teaches, dies, and rises again for our salvation.

“They were astounded at his teaching, for [Jesus] taught them as one having authority, and not as the Scribes.” People were not used to this kind of authority. They were used to the Pharisees and Scribes’ authority. The Scribes and Pharisees often spoke with authority but with little explanation or justification. It was if their attitude was “How dare you question us? This is our tradition. It’s the way we have been doing things for generations.” The teachers of the day did not offer much deeper understanding. The Scribes and Pharisees often abused their power. They shunned people they considered notorious sinners. They organized mobs to stone a woman caught in adultery. They put the heavy burden of the law on the people of God—more weight than what they were even able to bear. They conspired to have Jesus killed. The Scribes and Pharisees were often more of an obstacle than they were a help. It seemed like they worked harder to maintain their control and influence than to equip and empower others. The contrast between Jesus and other religious leaders is striking. This Teacher’s authority sets him apart from the others. His commanding teaching astounded them. His healing and delivering a man from an unclean spirit put the crowds in awe and wonder.

Because of this great authority, Jesus is the clearest and most beautiful source to understand and experience the love of God the Father. That was Jesus’ vocation. That was his job. That was his calling: to tell the world that God loves us, forgives us, heals us, and gives us eternal life. This is a great challenge to us as God’s people.

We are also called to be share the Good News with authority. Where has God placed us? How have we been given authority? Do we effectively communicate the grace and love of God around us? Do we show God’s love by our words and our actions? Do we allow time and have the patience to give people space and room to question, investigate on their own, and grow? Do we try to win arguments or win people? Is our goal to convince those around us that we are smarter? Or is our goal to assure others of the grace and acceptance of God and equip and empower them? We will astound those around us to speak with authority and humility at the same time. We will amaze people when we challenge them to a higher calling and unconditionally love them at the same time. You will put others in a state of shock and awe because the rest of the world does not operate that way. What a welcome exception to the rule! How refreshingly different we can be in contrast of this world plagued by pride, competition, and survival of the fittest! What sets Jesus apart should also set us apart. We have been entrusted with the same mission. We are stewards of the same Gospel. Jesus came with authority to heal, confront our demons, extend God’s forgiveness, and assure us of eternal life. And we are authorized by him: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matt 28:18-20).

His authority assures us of his grace and acceptance. His authority certifies our adoption as his daughters and sons. His authority authenticates his forgiveness. His authority gives us a hope of eternal life that will not disappoint. His authority equips and empowers us to extend his kingdom throughout the whole world.