By What Authority? Jesus' Kingdom Authority

Jesus has entered Jerusalem triumphantly as Messianic King riding on a donkey’s colt and offering peace to all who believe, both Jew and Gentile (19:28-40; cf. Zechariah 9:9ff). As Jesus enters Jerusalem he weeps over the city and pronounces a judgment on it for unbelief as Messianic Prophet (19:41-44). Jesus reveals himself as Messianic Priest as he enters the temple to cleanse it and to teach the people the truth of God in the Scriptures (19:45-48; cf. Mal. 3:1ff).

Now that Jesus has entered Jerusalem, revealing Himself as Messianic Prophet, Priest and King (see last sermon), his authority is questioned by the rulers and teachers in Israel who are part of the Sanhedrin. In our passage this morning from Dr. Luke’s Gospel, Jesus teaches and preaches the gospel of the Kingdom in the temple, and answers questions about the authority that he has from God as the Beloved Son.

Although Jerusalem and her temple will be destroyed as Jesus has predicted (19:41-44), nevertheless God’s vineyard will flourish in Jesus Christ, bearing much fruit that will last (John 15:1-7). Those who believe in Jesus as Messianic Prophet, Priest and King will find in Jesus Christ the cornerstone to a new temple built upon the foundation of Jesus, the apostles and the prophets (Eph. 2:19-22). By the authority of God Himself, Jesus will not destroy or replace Israel, but he will reform her according to the Gospel of the Kingdom.