Luke 20:2 – “Tell us by what authority you are doing these things,” they said. “Who gave you this authority?”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, the religious leaders confront Jesus, demanding to know where His authority comes from. They were referring to “these things,” which likely included His teaching, the miracles He performed, and His recent actions in the temple, like driving out the money changers (Luke 19:45-46). The leaders did not ask this question with genuine curiosity or a desire to learn the truth. Instead, their goal was to trap Jesus into saying something they could use against Him.
The question of authority was a big deal for them. In Jewish society, religious leaders gained authority through established systems, typically by formal education or being part of religious councils like the Sanhedrin. But Jesus had no formal religious training or official endorsement. Yet, He spoke with power, healed the sick, and challenged the religious system—all without their approval. The leaders’ question reflects their fear of losing control and their refusal to recognize the authority of God working through Jesus.
Historical Context
This confrontation happened during Jesus’ final week before His crucifixion. By this time, Jesus had gained a massive following and was being viewed by many as a prophet—or even the Messiah. This alarmed the religious leaders because, to them, Jesus was a threat to their power and their relationship with the Roman authorities.
Authority was central to Jewish society, especially in religious matters. The chief priests, scribes, and elders had authority over religious life, and the temple was their stronghold. When Jesus openly criticized their corruption (like in Luke 19:46, when He declared the temple a “den of robbers”), they saw Him not just as a troublemaker but as a threat to their leadership.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the difference between human authority and God’s authority. The religious leaders believed their authority came from tradition, status, and human approval, but Jesus operated under divine authority. His authority wasn’t given by men—it came directly from His relationship with God the Father (John 5:19-23).
This passage points to a deeper theological truth: spiritual authority comes from God, not man. Jesus didn’t need their permission to teach, heal, or cleanse the temple because He was acting on God’s authority. Their inability to recognize this reveals their spiritual blindness.
Literary Analysis
The question, “Who gave you this authority?” is central to the unfolding conflict in the Gospels. Luke, like other Gospel writers, often portrays Jesus in confrontations where the religious leaders try to trap Him with questions, only for Jesus to respond with wisdom that exposes their hypocrisy.
The structure of this scene builds tension: Jesus has been teaching and performing miracles publicly, and now the leaders challenge Him directly. Their question foreshadows the growing hostility that will eventually lead to His arrest and crucifixion.
Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 21:23-27 – A parallel account where Jesus responds to the same question by asking about John the Baptist’s authority.
- John 5:19-27 – Jesus explains that His authority comes from the Father and that He is entrusted with judgment and giving life.
- Isaiah 9:6-7 – A prophecy about the coming Messiah, who would possess authority from God to rule righteously.
- Colossians 2:10 – Christ is described as the head over every power and authority.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder that true authority comes from God. We live in a world that often values human approval, credentials, and status more than spiritual truth. But as followers of Christ, we recognize that our ultimate authority is God’s Word, not human traditions or societal standards.
This verse also challenges believers to be discerning. Just as the religious leaders failed to see God’s authority in Jesus, we, too, can miss God’s work if we’re too focused on earthly power or rigid traditions. We’re called to humbly submit to God’s authority in our lives, even when it’s inconvenient or unpopular.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in His willingness to send Jesus with the authority to heal, teach, and ultimately save humanity. Rather than relying on human institutions or systems to bring salvation, God Himself stepped into human history through Jesus. His authority wasn’t about control or domination—it was about bringing freedom from sin and showing His love through acts of compassion and truth.
Even when faced with rejection and hostility, Jesus continued to demonstrate God’s love by speaking the truth, knowing it would lead to His death. This shows how deeply committed God is to redeeming His people, even when they resist Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus’ entire mission was built on His divine authority. He declared that His teaching came from the Father (John 7:16) and that His authority was given by God (John 10:18). The question of authority is critical because it establishes that Jesus wasn’t just a good teacher or prophet—He was the Son of God, acting with the full authority of heaven.
This question of authority also points to the cross. The leaders rejected Jesus’ authority and sought to silence Him by crucifying Him. But their rejection did not diminish His power. After His resurrection, Jesus declared, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (Matthew 28:18). His authority is eternal and undeniable.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why did the religious leaders question Jesus’ authority, and what does that reveal about their hearts?
- What does it mean for Christians to recognize Jesus’ authority in their lives today?
- How can we guard against the same spiritual blindness that the religious leaders had?
- Are there areas in your life where you struggle to submit to God’s authority?
- How can remembering that Jesus’ authority comes from God give you confidence when facing opposition or challenges in your faith?