BY WHAT AUTHORITY

Introduction:

A. When Someone Asks You A Question, What Do You Do?

1. Determine their sincerity?

2. Answer as completely as possible?

3. "Blow them off?"

B. When Someone Asks You A Question About The Bible, What Do You Do?

Body: Luke 20: 1 - 8

I. A Confrontation.

A. Jesus is teaching in the temple.

1. He is telling the Truth.

2. There are people listening - must have students to be able to teach!

B. Jesus preaches the gospel.

1. He is preaching the good news.

2. He is telling them the kingdom is nigh.

C. Jesus is confronted by religious leaders.

II. A Double Barrel Question.

A. The baptism of John.

1. John baptized as the Messenger of God.

2. The religious leaders were not baptized by John.

3. They did not believe, therefore were not baptized.

B. By what authority did He baptize.

1. He was a prophet of God.

2. He was acknowledged as a prophet by the people.

3. He was either a true prophet or a false prophet.

C. They never questioned his authority.

III. Refusal To Answer.

A. Religious leaders say they do not know.

1. Refuse to answer based upon logic.

2. Refuse to answer based upon personal motives.

3. Refuse to answer to avoid the trap.

B. Jesus refuses to reveal His authority.

1. He indicates He has been given authority.

2. They do not really want to know His true authority anyway.

Conclusion:

A. Are We As Willing To Teach In The Face Of Opposition?

B. Is The Truth More Important Than "Keeping The Peace?"