Authority in Preaching
Jesus taught with authority. He didn't rely on gimmicks to make people interested. And through his authority, he brought about transformation.
And he went down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee. And he was teaching them on the Sabbath, and they were astonished at his teaching, for his word possessed authority.
Luke 4:31-32
When you preach, where do you get your authority?
From the famous people you quote?
From the Greek and Hebrew words you can share?
From your funny stories?
From the commentaries you consult?
The religious leaders of Jesus’ day made a game out of who they could quote. Their authority came from how good they could look because of their name dropping.
So when Jesus showed up, preaching with a different authority, he was, well, different.
The demon possessed guy from yesterday. Probably not his first synagogue service. But the demon decided today was the day to make a scene.
Why?
The authority of God.
You could be tempted to say, “But that’s Jesus! Of course he has authority!”
Yes. He was God, so he had a more of a direct line to the authority of God.
However, never forget he was human. Jesus has all authority in heaven and on earth. And Jesus is with you through the Spirit.
So, when you teach, the same authority Jesus had is available to you as well.
And this authority only comes through a Hear & Follow relationship with your Heavenly Father.