Exodus 29-30, Matthew 21:23-46 • Key Verse: Matthew 21:23

Do you ever question authority? Think about it before you answer “no.” Are you sure that there is never a time when you say, “Who do you think you are?” Perhaps you, do not say those exact words, but do you ever ignore a sign, like a speed limit sign or one that says “No U Turns” right where you want to turn? We may have a habit of questioning authority and not even notice it.
When Jesus’ authority was questioned in the temple courts, it was obvious.

The chief priests and elders asked Him in a straightforward way, “By what authority are you doing these things? And who gave you this authority?” (v. 23).

Do you ever question Jesus’ authority? Perhaps you don’t in a manner as blatant as these religious leaders did, but in other ways.

Like ignoring a traffic sign, a person can ignore the instructions in God’s Word. It really is a questioning of Jesus’ authority when we know what He says and choose not to obey. It is as if we are saying to Him, “Who do you think you are?”

He knows who He is and He has the authority. The real question is, “Do you obey?”

To know what is right and not do it is sin. To know what is wrong and do it is sin. The issue of authority is significant. Do you do right and not wrong, or are you in charge?

Woodrow Kroll & Tony Beckett
www.backtothebible.in