[Jesus speaking]
When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law.

--Parallel verses:
‭‭John‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬-‭5‬
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

Authority is a word that implies that a person’s words have true power. This power comes from God.

In our cross-reference in John chapter 1, the Apostle John describes Jesus as The Word. This most likely referred to the authority of his words. And it says he was with God when God said a few words, and created the world.

So we know Jesus’ words carried authority — really the most authority. However, the prophets before him also spoke with authority. How is it that the teachers of the law, who were so well versed in the Old Testament books, had no authority?

Authority is not based on knowledge but relationship and calling. Jesus was called by God to come to earth and save mankind. And he prayed to God and did his will. ““My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.” (‭‭John‬ ‭4‬:‭34‬)

The Pharisees had a fake relationship with God, based on superficial righteousness. They talked about their knowledge in their pride, to try and show others up. But their actions did not show that they had a close relationship with God. Why? Because they cared more for themselves and their power than God and those they served.

So how do I speak with authority in life, where my words carry weight? I must know God and his Word and speak truth in love. And I must care enough to act when others need my help.

Lord, thank you for modeling how to speak with authority. It is more about who I am in you and how I act than what I say. May my life speak strongly in pointing people to Jesus!