The word authority can mean different things based on several factors. If you are young, you might think of a teacher or parent as an authority. You may hold high regard for the government; government officials serve as authorities. Others may consider authority in the abstract—anything to which they adhere, including laws and commands. As Christians, we believe God and God’s word—written or living—is our highest authority. Today’s reading emphasizes Jesus’ authority.
Jesus enters the synagogue on the sabbath and begins teaching. Mark does not mention the content of Jesus’ teaching; instead he emphasizes who teaches and how he teaches.
The first dialogue in the passage highlights who teaches that day—Jesus of Nazareth, the Holy One of God. The unclean spirit recognizes that Jesus’ authority stems from God. Jesus rebukes the spirit, which leaves the man, albeit violently. Then, the people recognize how Jesus teaches—with authority. They do not yet recognize Jesus as the Son of God; they simply acknowledge his authority. Its source puzzles them, and they begin to ask, “What is this?”
Jesus’ divine authority portrayed in this scene, along with the questions the people in the synagogue raise, prompt us to consider the sources of authority in our own lives. Who has authority in my life? Is it the living Word of God, Jesus Christ? Do I look to the Bible for guidance or to the latest New York Times self-help best seller? God grants authority to the written word of the Bible and the living Word of Jesus Christ. We look to both for authoritative and trustworthy guidance.