Jesus and his followers went again to Jerusalem. As Jesus was walking in the Temple, the leading priests, the teachers of the law, and the elders came to him. They said to him, “What authority do you have to do these things? Who gave you this authority?”
Jesus answered, “I will ask you one question. If you answer me, I will tell you what authority I have to do these things. Tell me: When John baptized people, was that authority from God or just from other people?”
They argued about Jesus’ question, saying, “If we answer, ‘John’s baptism was from God,’ Jesus will say, ‘Then why didn’t you believe him?’ But if we say, ‘It was from other people,’ the crowd will be against us.” So they answered Jesus, “We don’t know.” Jesus said to them, “Then I won’t tell you what authority I have to do these things.” (Mark 11:27-33 NCV)
This story of the Jewish leaders challenging Jesus about His authority reveals the true nature of authority. He had it, they didn't. Jesus' confidence and authority came from God and He feared no one, nor was He influenced by people's opinions.
True authority requires no apology or explanation. ©Word-Strong_2014