On the Sabbath, Jesus taught in the local synagogue. It was common practice to invite a respected visitor to speak, but Jesus wasn’t like other teachers. His style of teaching demonstrated authority.
The scribes of the day had the tendency to quote other rabbis, but Jesus made direct assertions. His teaching suggested that he was granted his authority directly from God without study.
This astonished his listeners. The Greek word used here has the idea of something that causes one “to be filled with amazement to the point of being overwhelmed” or “to amaze, astound, overwhelm.”
They weren’t just a little surprised. They were astonished.
Jesus’s authority, however, went beyond words. He backed up his teaching with actions. Throughout the Gospel of Mark, Jesus demonstrated authority on behalf of others. In this case, he had the opportunity to show his authority right away when a man with an unclean spirit approached: “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God” (Mark 1:24).
The demon rightly realized that Jesus’s authority was the kind that triumphed over evil. His authority sought only the good of others, while the demonic world used its power to bring only chaos.
Jesus silenced evil with a rebuke: “Be silent, and come out of him!” (1:25). The unclean spirit, causing convulsions and crying out, departed from the man.
Those observing were once again amazed and a little bewildered: “What is this? A new teaching with authority! He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him” (1:27). Jesus became the topic of conversation throughout the whole region of Galilee. His fame came not just from his authoritative teaching but from the accompanying action. He calmed internal and external chaos instilled by the demonic world.
Sometimes it’s easy to become jaded by authority because we don’t often see it used for the good of others. Many use their power and influence to promote only themselves and even delight in taking advantage of others. It’s often most discouraging when a trusted Christian leader or mentor disappoints or betrays our trust. But Jesus shows us power doesn’t have to be corrupt. His example leads us down a better path.
Remember, Jesus didn’t wield authority for authority’s sake. Jesus teaches us that it’s not having or obtaining authority that ultimately defines us but what we do with it that matters most.
I’m an advocate for kids of special needs and parents of special needs. But not only that, also I’m an advocate for any woman who is hurting. I pray in the spirit and allow the Holy Spirit to download what and who to pray for.
Hopefully, the lives that we live as Christians, will be a good example of Christ, towards others around us. Hopefully, through Christ, we will be able to be there when we might be needed.
By always setting an example no matter the situation. Actions are stronger than words. Let others see Jesus in me by showing compassion to those that least expect it.
Actions speak louder than words. I must be the example. I realize there are those who do not know Christ so I must live so that they can see the Christ in me.
I feel the same way!
I can use my authority to pray and fight in the spirit for them against attacks from the enemy. I can use my authority to speak up for the wrongdoings to them.
In election season, I can definitely use my vote to influence policy and laws that benefit others, and those that need the support and uplifting of others. My church has many opportunities to partner with community organizations for which I can volunteer, and serve others. I can also my voice and social media to spur conversations with others. I can also use those opportunities to listen and learn from others.
By recognizing their strengths and what the gifts our. Knowing that what they are doing is for good and if it’s boys holding them accountable. Being a good leader means knowing the ppl you have around you are capable of leading themselves.
I think just being a good influence in all areas that Jesus has placed me. We are in this world, but not of this world, so when we see the enemy attacking or influencing those around us, we can share his authority given to us and advocate on their behalf.
I feel like I need to do more “go and tell…” to those closest around me. My hearts prayer are for my kids and step kids to truly know Jesus as their savior and I want to advocate for them through specific prayer for the Holy Spirit to intercede in their lives thst they would really know and feel Jesus in their lives!
Today I received an email from the child we sponsor in Uganda and we were able to give a gift to help provide food for the next couple of months for her and her family. Last week I was given the idea by God to reach out and start a scholarship in my stepfather’s name who is dying from congestive heart failure, he always wanted to be an engineer and was just shy of completing his degree.