Topical Encyclopedia Jesus Christ, central to the Christian faith, is depicted in the New Testament as having profound authority over religious practices. This authority is demonstrated through His teachings, actions, and fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, establishing Him as the ultimate interpreter and fulfiller of the Law.Authority in Teaching and Interpretation Jesus' authority is evident in His teaching style, which often contrasted with that of the scribes and Pharisees. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus frequently uses the phrase, "You have heard that it was said... But I tell you..." (Matthew 5:21-22), indicating His authority to reinterpret and fulfill the Law. His teachings emphasize the spirit of the Law rather than mere external adherence, focusing on internal righteousness and the heart's condition. Authority Over the Sabbath One of the most significant demonstrations of Jesus' authority over religious practices is His approach to the Sabbath. In Mark 2:27-28 , Jesus declares, "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. Therefore, the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath." This statement asserts His authority to define the purpose and observance of the Sabbath, challenging the legalistic interpretations of the religious leaders of His time. Cleansing of the Temple Jesus' cleansing of the temple is another powerful demonstration of His authority over religious practices. In John 2:15-16 , Jesus drives out the money changers and those selling animals, saying, "Get these out of here! How dare you turn My Father’s house into a marketplace!" This act underscores His authority to purify and restore true worship, emphasizing the sanctity of God's house. Authority in Forgiving Sins Jesus' authority extends to the forgiveness of sins, a prerogative traditionally reserved for God alone. In Mark 2:5-7 , when Jesus forgives the sins of a paralytic, the scribes question, "Why does this man speak like this? He is blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?" Jesus' response and subsequent healing of the paralytic affirm His divine authority to forgive sins, thus redefining the understanding of sin and atonement. Fulfillment of the Law and Prophets Jesus' authority is also rooted in His role as the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. In Matthew 5:17 , He states, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them." This fulfillment is not merely a continuation but a completion and perfection of the Old Testament, establishing a new covenant through His life, death, and resurrection. Authority in Establishing New Practices Jesus instituted new practices that would become central to Christian worship, such as the Lord's Supper. In Luke 22:19-20 , during the Last Supper, He instructs His disciples, "Do this in remembrance of Me," establishing a new covenantal practice that commemorates His sacrificial death and anticipates His return. Confrontation with Religious Leaders Throughout His ministry, Jesus frequently confronted the religious leaders of His time, challenging their interpretations and applications of the Law. In Matthew 23, He pronounces woes upon the scribes and Pharisees for their hypocrisy and legalism, asserting His authority to critique and correct religious practices that deviate from God's intentions. Conclusion Jesus' authority over religious practices is a central theme in the New Testament, reflecting His divine nature and mission to bring about a deeper, more authentic relationship between God and humanity. His teachings, actions, and fulfillment of the Law reveal a transformative approach to religious observance, centered on love, mercy, and truth. |