Divine Authority – Reflection on Matthew 21:23-27
Questioning truths is part of the lows and highs of the interior life of a Christian. To name but a few lows. There are suspensions of belief, falling back to coincidences, explaining the amazing as if human origin, and forgetting divinity is within. However, we have moments of pure peace, knowing the cross, and the deep desire to get closer to God. St. John of the Cross left a legacy of writings attempting to explain Jesus’ divine authority. John of the Cross writes of the trials and tribulations associated with agreeing with it, and what Jesus does through us if we do so.
The Chief Priests Ask Jesus by What Right Does He Act in This Way by James Tissot
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Matthew 21:23-27 – Scripture*
The Authority of Jesus Questioned
23 When he entered the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came to him as he was teaching, and said, “By what authority are you doing these things, and who gave you this authority?” 24 Jesus said to them, “I will also ask you one question; if you tell me the answer, then I will also tell you by what authority I do these things. 25 Did the baptism of John come from heaven, or was it of human origin?” And they argued with one another, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will say to us, ‘Why then did you not believe him?’ 26 But if we say, ‘Of human origin,’ we are afraid of the crowd; for all regard John as a prophet.” 27 So they answered Jesus, “We do not know.” And he said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.
Additional Thoughts
Thank you for meditating on this Gospel and reading this Lectio Divina on Matthew 21:23-27 Reflection – Divine Authority.
Would you like to contribute related thoughts to these Lectio reflections on the Gospel readings? Since Lectio is not the only contemplative prayer style, others might appreciate these expressions in this ministry. Do you see God’s grandeur everywhere and unconditionally enjoy sharing the love of Christ that you have inside? Are you willing to be anonymous in what you would share? If so, email me.
Prayer for young families:
Lord, let the young families of our communities get to know your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite worldly distractions.
Attributions
*This site has permission to use the New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) Bible Matthew 21 passage.
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Discussion group on St. John of the Cross.