Authority
OCTOBER 24, 2026
SCRIPTURE COLLECTION
Today's Scripture Passage
And when Jesus finished these sayings, the crowds were astonished at his teaching, for he was teaching them as one who had authority, and not as their scribes
Matthew 7:28-29
Related Scriptures:
Mark 1:22, 27
Matthew 5:21–22, 27–28
John 5:22, 27
Hebrews 1:1–2
John 12:48
Acts 17:30–31
Notes & Reflections
This passage is found at the end of the Sermon on the Mount and it’s one that is easily overlooked, but let’s think about it.
There are many ways people respond to the Word of God. Some find it fascinating. Some find it infuriating. Some find it a nice way to live life. Some are shocked that He would think or say that kind of thing. Some ignore it.
You see, the leaders of that day quoted other men and then added their own ideas to the mix. Their authority was like that of a messenger of a messenger of a messenger. But Christ didn't quote others. He said bold things, as if to yell at us through the darkness, "Listen, or else this will happen to you!" He made claims like, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life." When we read the Sermon on the Mount, we hear Him say amazing things!
If someone says, "The bridge downtown is on fire!" that would definitely cause a response. And if your friend says, "You need to get a shot to prevent the flu," that too would evoke a response. You may heed his voice and take action, or you may write it off and take the risk. And then again, you may hear your mom say, "Don't speed, or you may get a ticket," and that too can make you respond. But these are not the same as an officer warning you not to speed, or a judge telling you to pay your tickets or else.
Why?
Because of the authority.
You see, when Christ speaks, we may respond, or we may even write it off. But we must be sure that He isn't one to be ignored or simply admired. He's someone with God's authority, and He demands not just astonishment but also for us to change our mind and to put our faith in His work alone. He's not like the scribes; He's not one who needs authority but one who is Authority.
He is God.
So, let's again cling to His Word and love it. And let's love Christ. He knows what He's saying.
Didn’t the prophets also speak with authority? How is Jesus different?
The prophets from the authority they received from God. God spoke and so they gave the people the message. They often said, "thus says the Lord.."
Jesus, on the other hand, said "but I say to you." He set his words as equal to God's words. The prophets heard and declared Gods word, Jesus was Gods word.
Study Questions
QUESTION 01
Why were the crowds astonished at Jesus’ teaching?
QUESTION 02
How was Jesus’ authority different from the scribes?
QUESTION 03
What does Christ’s authority demand from us?
How To Cling Today
Cling to Christ today by listening to him.
Comments