23Jesus entered the temple courts, and, while he was teaching, the chief priests and the elders of the people came to him. "By what authority are you doing these things?" they asked. "And who gave you this authority?"
24Jesus replied, "I will also ask you one question. If you answer me, I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things.
- P56
The chief priests and elders demand to know by what authority Jesus has been doing His works. Seeing that their inquiry is not a pursuit for the truth, Jesus puts His questioners to the test. Will they admit their unbelief or choose to lose favor from the crowds? In the end, the leaders are unable to choose, and Jesus does not answer their question. - P58
There are times when we may want something from God, but instead of doing what we desire, the Lord challenges us in a different way. This is not evasion but a way for God to reveal the truth. He shows us the true intentions of our hearts so that we may understand what we are really asking. - P58
The chief priests and elders pridefully think that they are righteous becausethey are keeping the Mosaic laws, and so do not listen to John the Baptistwhen he preaches the way of righteousness to them. Jesus tells the leadersthat the tax collectors and prostitutes, who are perceived as some of theworst sinners, are entering the kingdom of God ahead of them. - P58
We see thatpast sins and socioeconomic backgrounds are not as important as repentingand believing in the true Son of God. We should not be like the secondson in the parable who claims to be obedient but fails to do the father‘swork. - P58
Regardless of our past, may we be quick to repent and faithful in ourobedience to Him. - P58
Having rooted ourselves in the assurances of God, we can then askthat He cleanse our hearts once again so that every sphere of our lives mightreflect the heart, words, and character of Christ. - P59
Lord God, I dare not hide behind my works or the praises of people. In that place where only You can see, at the center of my heart, let me be found pleasing in Your sight. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen. - P59
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