The amazement at Christ's authority is a recurring theme in the New Testament, reflecting the profound impact of Jesus' teachings and actions on those who witnessed them. This amazement is often expressed by the crowds, His disciples, and even His adversaries, highlighting the divine authority with which He spoke and acted.

Teaching with Authority

One of the most striking aspects of Jesus' ministry was the authority with which He taught. Unlike the scribes and Pharisees, who relied on tradition and the interpretations of previous teachers, Jesus spoke with direct authority. In the Sermon on the Mount, for example, He frequently used the phrase, "You have heard that it was said... But I tell you..." (Matthew 5:21-22), indicating His authority to interpret and fulfill the Law. The response of the people to His teaching was one of astonishment: "When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were astonished at His teaching, because He taught as one who had authority, and not as their scribes" (Matthew 7:28-29).

Authority over Demons and Nature

Jesus' authority extended beyond His teaching to His power over the spiritual and natural realms. In Mark 1:27 , after Jesus cast out an unclean spirit, the people were all amazed and questioned among themselves, "What is this? A new teaching with authority! He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey Him." This amazement at His authority over demons is echoed in other accounts, such as when He healed the Gerasene demoniac (Mark 5:1-20).

Similarly, Jesus demonstrated authority over nature, as seen when He calmed the storm on the Sea of Galilee. The disciples, witnessing this miracle, were filled with great fear and said to one another, "Who is this, that even the wind and the sea obey Him?" (Mark 4:41). This reaction underscores their growing realization of His divine authority.

Authority to Forgive Sins

Another significant aspect of Christ's authority is His power to forgive sins, a prerogative traditionally reserved for God alone. In the account of the healing of the paralytic, Jesus declares, "Son, your sins are forgiven" (Mark 2:5). The scribes present questioned in their hearts, "Why does this man speak like this? He is blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?" (Mark 2:7). Jesus, perceiving their thoughts, demonstrated His authority by healing the paralytic, thereby affirming His divine right to forgive sins.

Authority in His Resurrection and Commission

The ultimate demonstration of Christ's authority is found in His resurrection from the dead, which validated His claims and teachings. After His resurrection, Jesus declared, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me" (Matthew 28:18). This statement precedes the Great Commission, where He commands His disciples to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to obey all that He has commanded.

Throughout the Gospels, the amazement at Christ's authority serves as a testament to His divine nature and mission. His authority in teaching, over demons and nature, to forgive sins, and in His resurrection, all point to His identity as the Son of God, worthy of worship and obedience.