“…for He taught them as one having authority” (Mark 1:22)

“…for He taught them as one having authority” (Mark 1:22)

Prior to, and during the time of Christ, it was quite common for Jewish Rabbis, Scribes, and Scholars to teach the Scriptures by presenting multiple perspectives. They would cite differing views and viewpoints from various Rabbis and leave it to the listener to decide which was closer/closest to the truth.

This, however, was not Jesus’ approach. He taught as one “having authority.” He stated clearly, even bluntly, what the Holy Scriptures meant. He divided truth from falsehood, fact from fiction. Jesus spoke as someone with first-hand, personal, and absolute knowledge of the truth (John 3:13). This is what made His teaching so astonishing to the people, while at the same time raising the ire and anger of Jewish leaders.

And unlike Cartman from Southpark who pridefully sought after the hollow respect and position of authority, Jesus practiced His authority with extreme humility.

Fr. John