From Heaven Or Men?By Steven F. Deaton |
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The Jews challenged Jesus on His authority (Matt. 21:23). Jesus turned it around and asked them about John’s authority, was it from heaven or men (Matt. 21:24-25)? They refused to answer because if they denied it was from heaven, the people would turn against them; but if they said it was from heaven, they would be forced to accept what John taught—that Jesus is the “Lamb of God” (Matt. 21:25-27). This account reveals some important lessons. First, authority is needed in religion. Without authority, there is no right to act. Second, authority is needed from the right source. One who receives authority from a bogus source really has no authority at all. If you went to China and declared all their exports would be taxed at 50 percent, it would mean nothing to them. However, if our ambassador to China made the same declaration, China would react strongly. Authority must be from the right source. Third, authority may be found in one of two places, heaven or men. Heavenly authority is genuine, but earthly authority is worthless. When God decrees a thing, men have no right to reject, alter, or even debate it with God. Rather, it is our duty to submit. When men declare a thing that contradicts or modifies God’s will, it carries no authority. For instance, when men tell you God’s grace alone saves you, it has no authority. God said we must believe and be baptized (Mk. 16:16; Acts 2:38). Basically, it comes down to this: Is your religion supported by the authority of heaven (as found in the Bible) or by the word of men? One is genuine, the other bogus. |
Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. |
