authority of Jesus
Today’s lesson from the New Testament tells how Christ preached and began His healing ministry in Galilee.
And, the main study point shows the authority of Jesus.
The Book of Mark, chapter one explains this authority very well. Keep reading to see what Mark has to say about Christ’s visit to Capernaum.
And, let’s discover how we can make Jesus the top priority and authority in our lives as well.
authority of Jesus
Christ Teaches and Heals with Authority – The Authority of Jesus
They went into Capernaum; and immediately on the Sabbath He entered the synagogue and began to teach.
They were amazed at His teaching; for He was teaching them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.
Just then there was a man in their synagogue with an unclean spirit; and he cried out, saying, “What business do we have with each other, Jesus of Nazareth? Have You come to destroy us? I know who You are—the Holy One of God!”
And Jesus rebuked him, saying, “Be quiet, and come out of him!”
Throwing him into convulsions, the unclean spirit cried out with a loud voice and came out of him.
They were all amazed, so that they debated among themselves, saying, “What is this? A new teaching with authority! He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey Him.”
Immediately the news about Him spread everywhere into all the surrounding district of Galilee. – Mark 1:21-28 NASB
authority of Jesus
The Jewish Synagogue
When studying the authority of Jesus we need to look at a bit of Jewish history.
In those days, Synagogues served as “churches” and schools to teach the ways of the Old Testament to boys; sadly, not girls.
Jesus spoke at these synagogues as guest speakers were asked to come in to teach from time to time.
Many of these guest speakers gave their sermons. And, they quoted the better known rabbis of the day. They did this in order to give their sermons more authority.
The absolute difference of Jesus’ teachings
Jesus did not need to quote anyone. He knew the Scripture and could give a Bible study lesson from the one who first versed it.
In other words — God.
Since Christ was God in flesh (John 1:14) His authority came from Himself with no person to challenge it.
authority of Jesus
Driving out demons and healing the sick
This authority of Christ was further proven by the casting out of demons and healing sick patrons of the towns He visited.
These spirits had no response to Jesus but to leave those they (temporarily) controlled.
Making Jesus the Authority
One lesson taken from these verses is that we need to make Jesus the authority in our lives. So, We should pray about how we should live our lives. And, ask God to help with decisions we need to make on a daily basis.
By listening for the answers, we can draw upon the wisdom of the Holy Spirit. He will direct us.
Love in Christ
– Bob
If you would like to learn more about the love and life-changing experience of knowing Christ, please take a moment to read John 3:16 and follow these simple steps.