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Manila Bulletin devider Opinion devider A new teaching with authority

A new teaching with authority

Published Jan 8, 2024 08:42 pm

REFLECTIONS TODAY

Gird your loins

Authority (Greek exousia) is the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and to influence the behavior of others. 


In matters of faith and morals, the scribes have the authority to teach and command the people, based on their knowledge of the Law and their dependence on the revered rabbis of Israel in their interpretation of the Law. Jesus is not known to have undergone formal studies in Scriptures, and yet he shows “authority” in his teachings. Instead of parroting other teachers, he says, “I say to you” (Mt 5:22). 


Moreover, his words have power: he rebukes the demons or unclean spirits, and they obey. Surprisingly, the unclean spirits know where his authority emanates: from his very person as the Holy One of God. Even Jesus’ detractors grudgingly acknowledge Jesus’ authority, saying to him, “Teacher, we know that what you say and teach is correct, and you show no partiality, but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth” (Lk 20:21). 


Do you teach in accordance with the truth, or do you tailor your words to please friends and benefactors?

Gospel • Mark 1:21-28 

Jesus came to Capernaum with his followers, and on the sabbath he entered the synagogue and taught. The people were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority and not as the scribes. In their synagogue was a man with an unclean spirit; he cried out, “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!” 


Jesus rebuked him and said, “Quiet! Come out of him!” The unclean spirit convulsed him and with a loud cry came out of him. All were amazed and asked one another, “What is this? A new teaching with authority. He commands even the unclean spirits and they obey him.” His fame spread everywhere throughout the whole region of Galilee.

Source: “366 Days with the Lord 2024,” St. Paul’s, 7708 St. Paul Rd., SAV, Makati City (Phils.); Tel.: 632-895-9701; E-mail: [email protected]; Website: http://www.stpauls.ph.

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