Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for October 22, 2023

By What Authority?

Mark 11:27-33

1. Setting

• part of a section (11:27-13:2) focused on confrontation with the Jerusalem establishment
• contrast between the Jerusalem authorities and the Jerusalem crowd

2. A Question about Authorization 27-28

• continuing emphasis on “authority”
• these things: triumphal entry, fig tree cursing, temple cleansing
• by or who…?

3. A Calculated Response to Opponents 29-30

• counter-question of Jesus
• statement of condition
• reference to John’s baptism (1:1-11)

4. A Dilemma for the Religious Establishment 31-33

• dialogue about their response
• two problematic options
• confession of inability to decide
• the last word with Jesus

5. So What?

• In light of His assigned and exercised authority, eagerly and gladly submit to Jesus.
• “Obedience is the organ of spiritual knowledge.” (F. W. Robertson)
• Jesus always refuses to entertain or endorse hypocrisy.
• Actively promote Jesus as the sole focus of saving faith.
• “Did we in our own strength confide, our striving would be losing, were not the right Man on our side, the Man of God’s own choosing. Dost ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is He; Lord Sabaoth His name, from age to age the same; and He must win the battle.” (Luther, “A Mighty Fortress”)