The Best of the Portals of Prayer

Read: Matthew 7:24-29 / Psalm 11

“They were astonished at His teaching, for he taught them as one who had authority, and not as the scribes.”
Mark 1:22

The Voice of Authority

What are the voices of authority in your life? Many people do not begin a day without consulting the morning newspaper, watching the first news on television, or listening to the radio. All of these media devices of communication keep us informed. These seem to have become a voice of authority. According to today’s text, Jesus opened the eyes, ears, and hearts of people as He began His ministry in a Synagogue at Capernaum. The people responded in amazement as he taught God’s Word with Divine authority and by His power healed a possessed man. Jesus is very different from all religious teachers, because He IS the Son of God. His every Word is God’s Word.
Although our Lord ascended into heaven, He is still present with us in His Word. He is still the voice of authority. His Word still has power to free us from the power of the tyranny of Satan. It imparts the salvation He procured for us. He Himself is the content of His Word. Those who preach and teach this Word are Christ’s representatives and therefore speak with His authority. Blessed are all who hear the teaching of Jesus and believe it!
Dear Lord, thank You for teaching us with authority Your message of salvation. Amen.

February 22, 1992