Greetings in the name above all names, our Lord Jesus Christ. Let us reflect together on His words. In the book of Matthew 7:28–29, we read:
“When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at His teaching, because He taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law.”
These verses reveal that the teachings of Jesus were vastly different from what people of that time expected—and even from what many people expect today. Scripture says the crowds were “greatly astonished” because He spoke with authority, unlike the scribes.
What does it mean that Jesus taught “with authority”?
A person with authority speaks decisively, without twisting words or sugarcoating the truth. For example, when a president gives an order—“This project must be completed in two weeks”—there’s no room for negotiation. His command carries weight, and those under him must comply.
Similarly, Jesus did not come to speak in uncertain terms. He spoke plainly, directly, and truthfully. In the surrounding verses of Matthew 5–7 (the Sermon on the Mount), Jesus contrasted His teaching with that of the scribes and Pharisees, who mostly focused on Jewish traditions, appeasing people rather than pointing them to wholehearted devotion to God or warning them of the consequences of sin.
“You have heard that it was said… but I tell you”
Throughout His ministry, Jesus asserted His divine authority:
-
Matthew 5:29: “If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.”
The scribes would never dare speak like this. Jesus was willing to call people to radical sacrifice—abandoning sinful habits, ungodly relationships, or anything that hinders eternal life. -
Luke 14:27: “Whoever does not carry their cross and follow Me cannot be My disciple.”
He demanded complete allegiance, even above family ties (Matthew 10:37). -
Matthew 7:21–23: Many will claim, “Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name and drive out demons?” Yet He will reply, “I never knew you. Away from Me, you evildoers!”
-
Matthew 7:13–14: “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.”
These are uncompromising words, highlighting the eternal consequences of disobedience and the urgency of repentance.
Jesus Still Speaks With Authority Today
Jesus Christ is “the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). His words remain authoritative. Yet many today misinterpret His direct teaching as judgmental or harsh. People prefer soft, comforting words—messages like, “Jesus loves you, just be a good person and you’ll be fine.”
This was the approach of the scribes: avoiding hard truths for fear of losing their followers. They would not warn people about sin, judgment, or the urgency of living a holy life. They hesitated to speak of the end times, fearing they might scare listeners away.
But Jesus, because He truly loves us, corrects and rebukes us when necessary:
Revelation 3:19: “Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent.”
True love speaks truth, even when it stings. If you always hear only pleasant, easy messages, beware—you might not be hearing from Christ but from teachers who resemble the scribes.
Identifying True Teaching
The real Gospel confronts sin, calls for repentance, and prepares us for eternity. Jesus never flattered His listeners. He spoke with authority because He came to save us from sin’s destruction, not to make us comfortable in it.
Maranatha – the Lord is coming soon!
Please share this message with others.
Contact for prayers, service schedules, counseling, or questions:
+255693036618 / +255789001312
You can also receive these teachings via WhatsApp or email by messaging the same numbers.
Key Takeaway
“Soft-worded gospel will cost you everything.” True love warns of danger and points to the narrow road leading to life (John 14:6).