'Authority' from the Holy Spirit

Scripture: When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were astonished at his teaching, because he was teaching them like one who had authority, and not like their scribes. Matthew 7:28-29

Observation: This is the end of the 'sermon on the mount', and the people are astonished because Jesus teaches "like one who had authority," which is somehow different than the way their own teachers teach. This would beg the question, how was this different, and how was that authority exhibited?

We have few biblical examples of others "teaching". It is understood that, in the synagogues, there would be readings from the scriptures, and there may then be some summary statement of understanding about what was read. However, it is also well understood that the Holy Spirit was not active with the Jewish scribes and pharisees, and thus revelation about the scriptures did not exist. This is what Jesus is doing. Throughout this sermon, Jesus provides a short piece of scripture, then goes on to define how that truth can influence daily activity, alter one's life, clarify proper behavior, and improve relationships.

This is what "authority" looks like ... the Holy Spirit, giving meaning to scriptures, in a manner that reveals the Lord's purposes and love so that we can live a good life.

Application: I see something interesting in the above understanding of 'authority', which is this: It requires the Holy Spirit.

This seems like the true greatness and miracle of the Holy Spirit. It isn't just about 'spiritual gifts' or speaking in tongues or having unique insights. Rather, it is the ability for all of us to actually understand what God is saying to us. It is about the revelation of God!

Without the Holy Spirit, anyone could have some level of understanding of the existence of God. However, truly understanding how God's precepts and commands and instructions can give us a good, peaceful life, and how we can apply those principles to our daily actions and thoughts, involve a wisdom we can't have on our own. The Holy Spirit doesn't just give us that wisdom, but gives it to us with "authority" ... with an understanding we can rely upon as true and accurate as the Lord's instructions, and not just as our interpretation or opinion.

I do know there have been times, during my devotions over the last 10 years, that what I come to understand has this authority; That it is true and accurate and real, and not just my thoughts. I am comforted so greatly by this, because I know that understanding can come only from the Holy Spirit. I wish I had the Holy Spirit more and more powerfully in my life, and I know that I don't because of my failings. I don't wish it because I want 'authority' ... I wish it because I want the Lord's instructions for my life.

Prayer: Lord, I do mean this, I wish I had more and more of your moment-by-moment instruction in my life. Please forgive my sins and my sinful heart. May there be less of me within my own heart and my mind, so there can be more of your and your Holy Spirit. Amen.