In this compelling message, Pastor Jack King examines the central question posed to Jesus by the High Priest, the scribes, and the elders in the temple: "By what authority" do you teach? Drawing from Luke chapter 20, he reveals how Jesus used a counter-question about John the Baptist’s authority to expose the religious leaders' unwillingness to accept God's messengers, ultimately silencing His adversaries.
Pastor King then provides two profound testimonies that affirm Jesus’ absolute and divine authority, something the leaders failed to grasp.
The Roman Centurion's example of understanding and respecting military command reveals a deeper spiritual truth: Jesus is a man under authority, yet possesses the power to dispatch demons, heal the sick, and raise the dead merely by speaking a word.
The Wise Men's gifts—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—serve as a prophetic declaration, representing His royalty, the praise due to Him, and His ultimate mission of death, burial, and resurrection.
This sermon is a powerful reminder that Jesus' authority is not of man but of the Heavenly Father, who sent His Son to be the Savior of all mankind. Pastor King concludes with a heartfelt appeal for listeners to receive the salvation offered through the authority of Christ.
Main Points:
-- The religious leaders in Jerusalem were bothered by Jesus' popularity and challenged His authority to teach in the temple (Luke 20:1-8).
-- Jesus countered their challenge with a question about the source of John the Baptist's baptism (from heaven or from man), which the leaders refused to answer out of fear of the people.
-- The Roman Centurion (mentioned in Luke's account, implied here) demonstrated a deep understanding of Jesus’ authority, stating He only needed to "speak the word" to heal his servant.
-- Jesus marveled at the Centurion's faith, a rare reaction that highlights the Centurion's unique recognition of Christ's power.
-- The gifts of the Wise Men—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—prophetically declared Jesus' identity: Gold (His royalty), Frankincense (praise/worship), and Myrrh (His mission to die).
-- Jesus operates by the authority of the Heavenly Father, who appointed Him "heir of all things" and the one through whom the world was made (Hebrews 1:1-2).
Scriptures for Further Study
-- Luke chapter 20, beginning in verse 1
-- Book of Mark
-- Book of Hebrews
-- Hebrews chapter 1, verse 1
-- Hebrews chapter 1, verse 2
This is episode 109.
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By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
