Matthew 21:23

And when he was come into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came unto him as he was teaching, and said, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority?

Matthew 21:23 (KJV)

Context

This verse is part of the larger account of Jesus’ final week in Jerusalem. In Matthew 21, Jesus entered the city triumphantly on a donkey, fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9. He then cleansed the temple, driving out the money changers and those who were buying and selling, and healed the blind and the lame in the temple area. The people were filled with admiration, but the religious authorities were not. This confrontation takes place immediately after these events, as Jesus was teaching in the temple.

Meaning

The chief priests and the elders of the people came to Jesus with a direct challenge: “By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority?” Their question was not a sincere inquiry but a challenge to His legitimacy. They were the established religious leaders, responsible for overseeing the temple and ensuring adherence to the law. Jesus’ actions—cleansing the temple, healing, and teaching—threatened their position and their interests. The Greek word for authority used here is exousia, meaning delegated power or the right to act. By asking who gave Him this authority, they were demanding to know whether His commission came from God or from human appointment.

Biblical connections

In the following verses (Matthew 21:24-27), Jesus responded with a counter-question about the authority of John the Baptist. The chief priests and elders were caught in a dilemma: if they admitted John’s authority was from heaven, they would have to accept Jesus’ authority as well; if they denied it, they feared the people, who regarded John as a prophet. Their refusal to answer exposed their unwillingness to submit to divine authority. This encounter sets the stage for the parables that follow, including the parable of the two sons and the wicked tenants, which further illustrate the rejection of God’s messengers and the Son.

Application

The question of authority remains central for believers today. Jesus’ authority is not derived from earthly positions or titles but comes directly from God. As followers of Christ, we are called to recognise and submit to His authority in every area of life. This means obeying His teachings, trusting in His sovereignty, and allowing His authority to guide our actions and decisions. The religious leaders of Jesus’ day failed to recognise the work of God in their midst because they were more concerned with maintaining their power and traditions. We must guard against the same error, humbly acknowledging that true authority belongs to Christ alone.

Reflection

Consider how you respond to Jesus’ authority in your own life. Are there areas where you, like the chief priests and elders, resist His lordship because it challenges your comfort or control? Jesus’ authority is not oppressive but life-giving, and it calls for a response of faith and obedience. Let this encounter prompt you to examine your heart and to submit more fully to the One who holds all authority in heaven and on earth.