Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Mark 11:27-30 Then they came again to Jerusalem. And as He was walking in the temple, the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders came to Him. And they said to Him, "By what authority are You doing these things? And who gave You this authority to do these things?" But Jesus answered and said to them, "I also will ask you one question; then answer Me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things: The baptism of John-was it from heaven or from men? Answer Me."
HOLY WEDNESDAY
Today is Wednesday of Holy Week. The week is half gone. As the first Holy Week passed by in Jerusalem, the blind opposition to Jesus increased. Jesus healed the sick before them. He gave sight to the blind. They heard reports that He had raised the dead. He drove the money-changers out of the temple, calling it His house. He spoke to them with authority from the Scriptures. They would even hear voices from heaven. It was evident to anyone who honestly looked that at the very least God was with Jesus. It was plain to prominent council member Nicodemus. "Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him" (John 3:2).
But many others were obstinate in their unbelief -- despite the power and wonder of Jesus' actions (Acts 2:22-23). They came to Him and demanded by what authority He was doing these things. This wasn't the first time they had asked. Nor would they be satisfied with His answer now.
So instead of reiterating His authority, Jesus answered with another question. It was a no-win question for them. If they answered that John's baptism was from God, He would ask why they had despised it. If they said that it was NOT, then they would be at odds with the people. Jesus knew the conundrum they faced. He wanted them to consider again, even if they didn't believe it, that both John and Jesus had been sent by God.
Yes, John came to prepare the way before the Savior, revealing sin and preaching repentance. Jesus came to call all men to Himself, to offer forgiveness of sins and a place in the Father's house.
Jesus still comes in His Word, with authority and power, to call us to Himself to receive forgiveness and a place in heaven. The miracles He accomplished show His power and authority, that He is the very Son of God. The same Jesus walks with you today.
