Mark – Jesus has authority I
Mark 1: 21 - 28
They went to Capernaum, and when the Sabbath came, Jesus went into the synagogue and began to teach. The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law. Just then a man in their synagogue who was possessed by an impure spirit cried out, “What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!”
“Be quiet!”said Jesus sternly. “Come out of him!” The impure spirit shook the man violently and came out of him with a shriek.
The people were all so amazed that they asked each other, “What is this? A new teaching—and with authority! He even gives orders to impure spirits and they obey him.” News about him spread quickly over the whole region of Galilee.
Thoughts and questions
He taught then as one who has authority. The passage and several of the following highlight that Jesus has authority. I also find it interesting that the people were amazed that he taught with authority. I am left wondering how his teaching differed from others. In the academic world people often present ideas as so-and-so said this and another person said that, and I found … This can actually add to confusion for people and I can’t help wonder if that is what the teachers of the time did. I think Jesus taught as one who has authority meant that he interpreted the scriptures to people – without debate, and without any doubt of the meaning of the scriptures. The following verses highlight/ support Jesus’ authority.
Jesus has authority in the spiritual realms. This spirit, assumed demon, an entity that, from what I understand, is older than the creation of the world recognized Jesus but Jesus is greater than the spirits. He has authority to command them.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, help me understand your teaching. Your teachings were right and true. Help me apply them to my life. Jesus, I recognize and submit to your authority in my life. Use my life to accomplish your purposes.