In Matthew 7:28–29, the conclusion of the Sermon on the Mount, we see the profound impact of Jesus’ teaching on His audience. Unlike the religious leaders of His day, Jesus spoke with an authority that astonished the crowds. His words were not mere interpretations of the Law but divine truth spoken with absolute authority. This passage highlights the uniqueness of Christ’s teaching, setting Him apart from all other religious figures and affirming His divine nature. In this essay, we will explore the authority of Jesus, its significance in the biblical narrative, and its implications for believers today.
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The Response to Jesus’ Teaching
1. “The Crowds Were Amazed at His Teaching”
Matthew records the reaction of the people who had listened to Jesus’ words:
“When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching.” (Matthew 7:28)
The word amazed (Greek: ekplēssomai) conveys deep astonishment and overwhelming wonder. The people recognized that Jesus’ words were unlike anything they had ever heard before. He did not merely recite traditions or offer legalistic interpretations of the Law, as the scribes and Pharisees did. Instead, He spoke with a power and clarity that left His audience in awe.
This reaction to Jesus’ teaching was not an isolated event. Throughout the Gospels, people responded with amazement to His words and miracles:
- Mark 1:22: “The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law.”
- John 7:46: “No one ever spoke the way this man does.”
The unparalleled authority of Jesus distinguished Him from all others, reinforcing the divine nature of His message.
2. “He Taught as One Who Had Authority”
Matthew continues:
“Because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law.” (Matthew 7:29)
The contrast between Jesus and the religious leaders is striking. The scribes and Pharisees based their teachings on traditions and interpretations of the Law, often quoting other rabbis to justify their positions. Their authority was derived from external sources, but Jesus’ authority was inherent. He spoke as the very source of truth.
This is evident in His repeated phrase throughout the Sermon on the Mount:
“You have heard that it was said… But I tell you…” (Matthew 5:21–22, 27–28, 31–32, etc.)
Rather than merely interpreting the Law, Jesus spoke with divine authority, declaring the true meaning and intent of God’s commands. His words did not require validation from human traditions because they were spoken with the authority of God Himself.
The Nature of Jesus’ Authority
1. Authority as the Son of God
The authority of Jesus is rooted in His divine identity. Unlike the prophets who spoke on behalf of God, Jesus spoke as God. John 1:14 declares:
“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.”
His authority was not derived from human institutions but was inherent in His nature as the Son of God. This was affirmed at His baptism when the Father declared:
“This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:17)
Because Jesus is God in the flesh, His words carry absolute and eternal authority.
2. Authority Over the Law
Jesus did not abolish the Law but fulfilled it (Matthew 5:17). As the divine Lawgiver, He had the authority to interpret and apply the Law according to its true intent. His teachings emphasized the spirit of the Law rather than mere external obedience.
Unlike the Pharisees, who emphasized ritual and legalism, Jesus revealed the heart of God’s commands, calling people to true righteousness—one that flows from a transformed heart.
3. Authority Over Creation, Disease, and Death
Jesus’ authority extended beyond His teaching—it was demonstrated in His actions:
- Authority over nature: Jesus calmed the storm, and His disciples responded, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!” (Mark 4:41).
- Authority over sickness: He healed the sick with a word (Matthew 8:16).
- Authority over demons: Demons obeyed Him, recognizing His divine power (Luke 4:36).
- Authority over life and death: Jesus raised the dead, proving His power over the grave (John 11:43–44).
These miracles validated His words, confirming that His authority was divine.
4. Authority to Forgive Sins
One of the most radical aspects of Jesus’ authority was His power to forgive sins. In Mark 2:5, He tells a paralyzed man:
“Son, your sins are forgiven.”
This statement shocked the religious leaders because they understood that only God could forgive sins. By exercising this authority, Jesus revealed His divine prerogative, proving that He was indeed God in human flesh.
5. Authority Over Judgment
Jesus’ authority also extends to judgment. He declares in John 5:22:
“Moreover, the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son.”
At the end of the age, all humanity will stand before Christ. Those who have obeyed His words will enter eternal life, while those who have rejected Him will face judgment (Matthew 25:31–46).
The Response to Jesus’ Authority
1. Submission to Christ’s Lordship
Since Jesus speaks with divine authority, His words demand a response. True discipleship is not about mere admiration but submission to His commands. Philippians 2:10–11 affirms:
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord.”
Believers must align their lives with His teachings, recognizing Him as Lord and Master.
2. Trust in His Word
Jesus’ words are not suggestions; they are the foundation for life. As He states in John 8:31–32:
“If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
Building our lives on Christ’s words leads to true freedom and eternal security.
3. Proclaiming His Message
Because Jesus’ teaching carries divine authority, believers have a responsibility to proclaim it. The Great Commission commands:
“Go and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:19–20)
Sharing the gospel is not optional—it is the mission of every follower of Christ.
The Gospel and Christ’s Authority
Jesus’ authority is ultimately demonstrated in the gospel. Through His death and resurrection, He secured salvation for all who believe in Him. After His resurrection, He declared:
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” (Matthew 28:18)
This authority guarantees that those who trust in Him will be saved and that His promises are secure.
Conclusion
The Sermon on the Mount concludes with a striking recognition of Jesus’ authority. Unlike the religious leaders, He spoke as God Himself, calling people to true righteousness and eternal life. His words demand a response—either submission to His Lordship or rejection of His truth.
For believers today, this passage serves as both a reminder and a challenge. Jesus is not merely a teacher or prophet; He is the divine Son of God whose words hold eternal significance. May we listen, obey, and proclaim His truth, building our lives on the unshakable foundation of His Word.
“Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.” (Matthew 24:35
All Scripture quoted from:
New International Version (NIV)
Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
For Further Reference: A Detailed Study on the Entire Sermon on the Mount
