MARK 11:27-33
THE AUTHORITY OF JESUS QUESTIONED
Text – Mark 11:27–33
27 They returned once more to Jerusalem. As he was walking in the temple area, the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders approached him
28 and said to him, “By what authority are you doing these things? Or who gave you this authority to do them?”
29 Jesus said to them, “I shall ask you one question. Answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things.
30 Was John’s baptism of heavenly or of human origin? Answer me.”
31 They discussed this among themselves and said, “If we say, ‘Of heavenly origin,’ he will say, ‘Then why did you not believe him?’
32 But shall we say, ‘Of human origin’?”—they feared the crowd, for they all thought John really was a prophet.
33 So they said to Jesus in reply, “We do not know.” Then Jesus said to them, “Neither shall I tell you by what authority I do these things.”
Introduction
Following the cleansing of the Temple, the religious leaders confront Jesus, demanding to know the source of His authority. Their question is not born of genuine curiosity but of hostility—they seek to undermine His public influence. Jesus, knowing their intentions, responds with a counter-question about John the Baptist’s ministry, exposing their hypocrisy and fear of the crowd. This encounter highlights a central theme in Mark’s Gospel: the divine authority of Jesus, which surpasses all human institutions.
Historical and Jewish Context
In the Jewish hierarchy, the “chief priests, scribes, and elders” represented the Sanhedrin—the highest religious authority in Israel. Their question reflects a legal challenge, since only authorized priests or teachers could act within the Temple precincts. Jesus’ cleansing of the Temple and His public teaching threatened their power. John the Baptist, whom Jesus mentions, was widely recognized as a prophet, though not officially sanctioned by the Temple authorities. By asking whether John’s baptism was of divine or human origin, Jesus forces them into a dilemma: to affirm its divine origin would require acknowledging John’s witness to Jesus as the Messiah; to deny it would provoke public outrage. Their refusal to answer reveals their spiritual blindness and political self-interest.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This exchange demonstrates that true authority in the Kingdom of God is not derived from human approval but from divine commission. Jesus’ authority comes directly from the Father, as manifested through His words, miracles, and fulfillment of prophecy (John 5:19–27). The leaders’ inability to discern this authority stems from hardened hearts and pride. The Church teaches that all authentic authority—whether in teaching, governance, or ministry—flows from Christ, who entrusted it to the apostles and their successors (CCC 874–879). The encounter also reminds believers that faith requires humility; those who refuse to acknowledge God’s action because of pride or fear lose the ability to recognize truth itself.
Parallels in Scripture
Matthew 21:23–27 – Parallel account of the same event.
Luke 20:1–8 – Jesus questions the leaders about John’s baptism.
John 5:43 – “I came in the name of my Father, but you do not accept me.”
John 7:16–17 – “My teaching is not mine but his who sent me.”
Acts 4:7–12 – Peter and John declare that salvation and authority come through Jesus’ name alone.
Key Terms
Authority (exousia) – The divine power and right given by God to teach, heal, and forgive.
Sanhedrin – The ruling council of Jewish leaders responsible for religious and civil matters.
Baptism of John – A sign of repentance preparing the way for the Messiah.
Fear of the Crowd – The insecurity of leaders who value human approval over divine truth.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This passage is read during Ordinary Time as a reflection on divine authority and authentic discipleship. It calls the Church to fidelity to Christ’s mission rather than worldly approval. In the liturgy, the priest’s authority to consecrate, forgive sins, and proclaim the Word comes from Christ Himself, not from human merit. Every act of worship thus proclaims that true authority belongs to the One sent by the Father.
Conclusion
The religious leaders’ refusal to answer exposes their lack of faith and moral integrity. Jesus, whose authority they question, is Himself the incarnate Word of God—the ultimate source of all truth and power. His silence in response is not weakness but judgment: those unwilling to accept divine revelation cannot understand divine authority.
Reflection
Do I seek to live under God’s authority or rely on my own understanding? True faith means submission to Christ’s word even when it challenges my pride or comfort. The humble recognize God’s voice; the proud remain blind to His truth.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You are the source of all true authority. Grant me humility to recognize Your presence and to obey Your word with faith. Keep me from pride and fear that close the heart to Your truth. May Your authority guide my life and make me a faithful witness to Your kingdom. Amen.