What Jesus Did! 'With Authority!' — Luke 4:31-32

Wednesday, March 1, 2023

[After the attempt in Nazareth to kill him,] Jesus went to Capernaum, a town in Galilee, and taught there in the synagogue every Sabbath day. There, too, the people were amazed at his teaching, for he spoke with authority.
— Luke 4:31-32 NLT

Key Thought

There are at least three types of authority that people may have:
  1. Some folks have authority by virtue of a position to which they've been appointed. Some use their position and authority wisely, while others misuse them to boss others around.
  2. Some folks have authority because of who they are and how they conduct themselves.
  3. Finally, some folks speak with authenticity and clarity that give them authority.

Jesus had all three types of authority — he was sent by God, lived with integrity, and taught God's truth. That's why he stood out. That's also why he was viewed as dangerous by his opponents. The point for us, however, is that we need to listen to what Jesus says! Jesus came and gave us God's truth for our lives. Will we listen and follow him?

Today's Prayer

Holy and righteous God, thank you for speaking to me so clearly through Jesus. His life and his words are so powerful. Open my mind and heart as I seek to understand and apply his words and his example to my life. In his name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Luke 6:40
  • Matthew 28:18-20
  • Hebrews 1:1-3

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Illustration

Illustration of Luke 4:31-32 NLT — There, too, the people were amazed at his teaching, for he spoke with authority.

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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