The authority of Jesus is a central theme in the New Testament, reflecting His divine nature and mission. This authority is demonstrated through His teachings, miracles, and fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, establishing Him as the Messiah and the Son of God.

Authority in Teaching

Jesus' authority in teaching is evident throughout the Gospels. Unlike the scribes and Pharisees, who relied on tradition and the interpretations of others, Jesus spoke with inherent authority. In the Sermon on the Mount, He frequently uses 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 people recognized this unique authority, as noted in Matthew 7:28-29 : "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."

Authority over Nature and the Supernatural

Jesus' authority extends over nature and the supernatural realm. In the calming of the storm, He demonstrates His power over creation: "Then He got up and rebuked the winds and the sea, and it was perfectly calm" (Matthew 8:26). His authority over demons is also clear, as seen in His command to unclean spirits, "Be quiet and come out of him!" (Mark 1:25), and they obey Him. These acts reveal His dominion over both the physical and spiritual worlds.

Authority to Forgive Sins

One of the most profound demonstrations of Jesus' authority is His power to forgive sins. In the healing of the paralytic, Jesus declares, "Son, your sins are forgiven" (Mark 2:5). This statement causes controversy among the scribes, who question, "Who can forgive sins but God alone?" (Mark 2:7). Jesus responds by healing the man, proving His authority to forgive sins on earth, thus affirming His divine identity.

Authority over Life and Death

Jesus' authority over life and death is manifested in His miracles of raising the dead, such as Jairus' daughter (Mark 5:41-42) and Lazarus (John 11:43-44). His own resurrection is the ultimate demonstration of His authority over death, as He declares, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies" (John 11:25).

Authority in His Commission

Before His ascension, Jesus imparts His authority to His disciples, commissioning them to continue His work. In the Great Commission, He states, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations..." (Matthew 28:18-19). This passage underscores the comprehensive nature of His authority and the mandate for His followers to act under His command.

Authority as the Son of God

The authority of Jesus is intrinsically linked to His identity as the Son of God. Throughout the Gospels, His authority is affirmed by God the Father, as at His baptism: "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased" (Matthew 3:17). The transfiguration further confirms this, with the voice from the cloud declaring, "This is My beloved Son. Listen to Him!" (Mark 9:7).

Authority in Judgment

Jesus also possesses authority in judgment, as He will return to judge the living and the dead. In John 5:22 , it is stated, "Moreover, the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son." This authority underscores His role in the final judgment and the establishment of His eternal kingdom.

The authority of Jesus is a testament to His divine nature and mission, encompassing His teachings, miracles, and ultimate victory over sin and death. His authority is recognized and affirmed throughout the New Testament, establishing Him as the sovereign Lord and Savior.