Luke 20:3 – He replied, “I will also ask you a question. Tell me:”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Jesus responds to the religious leaders who questioned His authority. Instead of giving them a direct answer, Jesus uses a counter-question. This wasn’t a strategy to avoid their question but a way to reveal their true motives and expose their hypocrisy. He knew they weren’t genuinely seeking the truth—they were trying to trap Him.
Jesus’ question, as we learn in the following verses, concerns the authority of John the Baptist. If the religious leaders admitted that John’s authority came from God, they would have to acknowledge that Jesus’ authority came from God too, since John testified about Him. But if they denied John’s authority, they would lose credibility with the people, who viewed John as a prophet. Jesus’ approach was brilliant, showing His wisdom and ability to reveal hidden intentions.
Historical Context
This encounter occurred in the temple during Jesus’ final week before His crucifixion. At this point, tensions between Jesus and the religious leaders were at an all-time high. Earlier, Jesus had driven out the money changers and merchants from the temple (Luke 19:45-46), an act that directly challenged the leaders’ control. His growing popularity and His bold actions made them desperate to find a way to discredit Him.
The religious leaders—chief priests, scribes, and elders—held positions of authority in the Jewish community, and they were used to having their power respected. However, Jesus posed a threat to their influence by teaching the people without their approval and calling out their corruption. Their confrontation with Him was driven by fear of losing their power and their inability to see Jesus for who He truly was.
Theological Implications
This verse touches on the theme of spiritual blindness and accountability. The religious leaders were supposed to guide the people toward God, but their pride and fear kept them from recognizing God’s authority in Jesus. Instead of seeking the truth, they focused on protecting their positions.
Jesus’ question also reflects a deeper theological truth: God’s wisdom surpasses human understanding. While the religious leaders tried to manipulate Jesus, they ended up being exposed. This reveals that no one can outsmart God or twist His truth for their own gain.
Literary Analysis
Luke’s Gospel often highlights Jesus’ wisdom through dialogue, and this verse is a prime example. The structure of this passage builds tension as Jesus takes control of the conversation. The leaders expected to trap Him with their question, but Jesus turns the tables by asking a question of His own. His response forces them into a dilemma, demonstrating His ability to uncover the truth through simple but powerful words.
The use of a question to answer another question is a common teaching technique in Jewish culture, known as “rabbinic debate.” But Jesus wasn’t just using a cultural method—He was revealing that their question wasn’t sincere and that they weren’t ready to accept the truth.
Biblical Cross-References
- Proverbs 26:4-5 – These verses offer wisdom about how to respond to fools, showing that sometimes a well-placed question is the best way to expose foolishness.
- Matthew 21:23-27 – A parallel account where Jesus asks the same counter-question about John the Baptist’s authority.
- John 1:19-34 – John the Baptist’s testimony about Jesus, affirming that Jesus was the Messiah sent by God.
- Luke 7:29-30 – The people acknowledged John’s authority, but the religious leaders rejected it, revealing their spiritual blindness.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder of the importance of seeking the truth with an open heart. The religious leaders weren’t interested in the truth—they were only interested in defending their status and control. This serves as a warning for believers to examine their own motives when approaching God’s Word. Are we truly seeking His will, or are we trying to justify our own desires?
This verse also shows the wisdom of Jesus and the value of asking the right questions. As Christians, we can learn from His example by being thoughtful and discerning when faced with opposition or difficult situations. Rather than reacting impulsively, we can respond with wisdom and grace.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in Jesus’ patience with the religious leaders. Even though they were trying to trap Him, Jesus didn’t immediately condemn them. Instead, He engaged them in conversation, giving them an opportunity to reflect on their actions and beliefs. This reflects God’s character as patient and merciful, giving people multiple chances to repent and turn to Him.
God’s love also extends to those who seek Him with sincerity. Unlike the religious leaders, those who approach God with humility and a genuine desire for the truth will find His wisdom and grace readily available.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus’ response in this verse demonstrates His divine wisdom and authority. He wasn’t just a man with clever answers—He was the Son of God, speaking with the wisdom that comes from above (Colossians 2:3). His ability to expose the religious leaders’ hypocrisy highlights His role as the ultimate judge of hearts and intentions.
This verse also connects to Jesus’ mission to reveal the truth of God’s kingdom. Throughout His ministry, Jesus confronted religious leaders, not to humiliate them, but to call them to repentance. His counter-question about John the Baptist points to the larger truth of His identity as the Messiah, the One who fulfills God’s promises.
After His resurrection, Jesus declared, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (Matthew 28:18), confirming the very authority that the leaders had questioned. His authority is rooted in His identity as the Son of God and is still relevant for believers today.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think the religious leaders were unwilling to acknowledge Jesus’ authority?
- How can we guard against the same kind of spiritual blindness that they had?
- What can we learn from Jesus’ wisdom in responding to opposition or criticism?
- Are there areas in your life where you resist God’s authority because it challenges your comfort or status?
- How can asking the right questions help you grow in your faith and understanding of God’s Word?