Tuesday Family Devotional
Jesus Teaches with Authority

On Tuesday of Holy Week, Jesus spent much of the day teaching in the temple. Crowds gathered around him to hear what he would say. But the religious leaders were not happy. They wanted to challenge Jesus and make him look silly in front of people.

They asked him, “By what authority are you doing these things?” “Who said you could do these things?” They did not want to believe that Jesus had been sent by God. But Jesus did have authority from God. Everything he taught came from the Father.

Think about a classroom. If a teacher gives instructions, the students listen because the school has given that teacher authority. The teacher’s instructions help the class learn and stay safe. Or think about your mom and dad. God has given you to your mom and dad, and it’s their job to raise you, to teach you, to protect you, to help you grow. You listen to your mom and dad because God has given them authority over you. In a similar way, Jesus speaks with authority from God himself. His words are true and trustworthy, and we should listen and obey them.

Later, someone asked Jesus what the greatest commandment was. Jesus answered, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart…and love your neighbour as yourself.” Everything God wants us to do flows from the command for us to love him and love others.

1. Why do you think the religious leaders questioned Jesus’ authority?
2. What does it mean to love God with all your heart?
3. How can we show God that we love him? How can we show other people that we love them?

Heavenly Father, we thank you for sending Jesus to teach us the truth. Help us love you with all our hearts and show your love to others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.