Luke 20:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 20:2
2 And spake unto him, saying, Tell us, by what authority doest thou these things? or who is he that gave thee this authority?
Chapter Context
Luke 20 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of wisdom, holiness, discipleship. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-47: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 20:2
2 And spake unto him, saying, Tell us, by what authority doest thou these things? or who is he that gave thee this authority?
Analysis
Tell us, by what authority doest thou these things? or who is he that gave thee this authority? The question ἐξουσίᾳ (exousia, authority) appears twice, emphasizing the central issue. Exousia means legitimate power, jurisdiction, or right to act—not mere ability but authorized permission. "These things" (ταῦτα, tauta) refers to teaching in the temple, proclaiming the gospel, and especially cleansing the temple (19:45-46).
The double question creates a false dilemma: identify the source of authority. If Jesus claims divine authority, they'll charge Him with blasphemy. If He claims human authority (like the prophets commissioned by God), they'll demand credentials. Jesus' response (vv. 3-8) masterfully exposes their bad faith—they're not genuinely seeking truth but setting a trap. This question reveals the fundamental conflict between human religious authority and divine authority breaking into the establishment.
Historical Context
Temple authorities controlled who could teach in the courts. Rabbis derived authority from recognized teachers in the chain of tradition. Jesus had no formal rabbinic training (John 7:15) and claimed authority directly from God, bypassing the establishment. The leaders' question was legally proper—they had responsibility to protect the temple from false teachers. However, their earlier rejection of John the Baptist (whom they also questioned, John 1:19-28) and their opposition to Jesus' miracles revealed hearts closed to divine authentication.
Reflection
- How do religious leaders today sometimes demand credentials while rejecting clear evidence of God's work?
- What is the difference between genuinely seeking to understand authority versus using authority questions as a trap?
- Why is the question of Jesus' authority still the central issue every person must answer?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Exodus 2:14, John 2:18, Acts 7:27