1. By what authority? (23)

Jesus had driven the merchants from the temple; he rebuked the chief priests. When he taught in the temple, people listened. The chief priests were jealous of his power and popularity. He had no formal education; he had no license. He had never been to seminary; he was not ordained. So they asked him for proof of his authority. Their implication was that he had none.

2. Jesus asks one question (24-27)

Jesus answered by asking a question: Was John's baptism from heaven or from men? John the Baptist was a hero. When he had preached repentance, thousands had repented. He had died a martyr's death for rebuking the evil and immoral King Herod. This same John had proclaimed Jesus to be the Messiah sent by God. So the religions leaders refused to answer Jesus' question. Men who do not follow truth, but follow expediency, are evil. Jesus is the Christ of God; we must obey him.

Application: Lord, you have all authority in heaven and on earth. Teach me to obey.
One Word: Jesus has authority