Authority of Christ

The authority of Christ is a central theme in the New Testament, reflecting His divine nature and His role as the Messiah. Jesus' authority is evident in His teachings, miracles, and His power over nature, demons, and even death. In Matthew 28:18, Jesus declares, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me." This statement underscores His supreme authority, granted by the Father, encompassing both the spiritual and physical realms.

Throughout the Gospels, Jesus exercises authority in various ways. In Mark 1:27, the people are amazed at His teaching, for He taught "as one who had authority, and not as the scribes." His authority is further demonstrated in His ability to forgive sins, as seen in Mark 2:10-12, where He heals a paralytic and declares, "But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins..." This act not only confirms His authority but also His divine identity.

Christ's authority extends over the natural world, as illustrated in the calming of the storm in Mark 4:39-41. The disciples marvel, "Who is this, that even the wind and the sea obey Him?" His command over nature reveals His sovereignty as the Creator. Additionally, His authority over demonic forces is evident in passages like Mark 1:34, where He "drove out many demons" and forbade them to speak.

Knowledge of Christ

The knowledge of Christ is another testament to His divine nature. Jesus possesses an intimate understanding of human hearts and minds, as well as the mysteries of God. In John 2:24-25, it is noted that Jesus "knew all men" and "did not need anyone to testify about man, for He Himself knew what was in man." This insight into human nature is a reflection of His omniscience.

Christ's knowledge is also evident in His teachings and parables, which reveal profound truths about the Kingdom of God. In Matthew 13:11, Jesus explains to His disciples, "The knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them." His ability to impart divine wisdom and understanding sets Him apart as the ultimate Teacher.

Furthermore, Jesus demonstrates foreknowledge of future events, including His own death and resurrection. In Mark 8:31, He begins to teach His disciples that "the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, chief priests, and scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again." This prophetic knowledge confirms His role as the Messiah and His submission to the Father's redemptive plan.

In summary, Christ's authority and knowledge are integral to His identity as the Son of God. His authority is manifested in His teachings, miracles, and dominion over all creation, while His knowledge reveals His divine insight and understanding of both human nature and the divine will. These attributes affirm His unique position as the Savior and Lord, worthy of worship and obedience.