1/31/2021 - Jesus' Teaching with Authority Identifies Him as the Prophet
Authority figures are easy to identify. When the author of a book explains the plot or the builder of a house gives a tour, people tend to listen. Even if the speakers look like average people, their words demonstrate their own expertise. Such authority commands respect. In Jesus’ day, the teachers of the law went to great lengths to bolster their reputation as religious authorities. However, when they taught the people, their words gave them away. They did not speak on behalf of God. Today we’ll see that Jesus’ teaching commanded respect and demonstrated his godly authority.
Israel was familiar with authority figures - they had Moses! Deuteronomy teaches that Israel had been waiting since Moses for God’s chosen Prophet. This Prophet would have special authority from God to teach and enforce God’s commands. They would know him because the words of the Lord would be in his mouth. Hebrews argues that since Christ is the builder of everything, the authority of his word makes him worthy of greater honor than Moses. Jesus demonstrated that authority in our Gospel lesson when he cast out demons. When even the demons obey him, Jesus revealed himself as Israel’s the long-awaited Prophet, and the fulfillment of Moses’ words in Deuteronomy.
God also gives special instructions to those who hear Jesus’ words. Since Jesus teaches the Word of God, God holds us accountable to listen and obey. Just as Christ honors his Father’s words, so too do we honor Christ and his teachings. He equips us with his Word to drive away the devil and every false teaching. Therefore, let us ascribe all glory and strength to our Lord and all the authority of God to our Savior.
God bless your worship!
First lesson: Deuteronomy 18:15-20 God will raise up a prophet greater than Moses
Second lesson: Hebrews 3:1-6 Jesus, a prophet greater than Moses
Gospel: Mark 1:21-28 Jesus teaches with authority
Sermon text: Mark 1:21-28. Theme: Learn from the Demons
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