Matthew 21:37-46

The Question Of Jesus' Authority (21:37-22:46).

While, as we have seen above, the section from Matthew 19:3 to Matthew 22:46 forms a complete section in itself, enclosed within a dissertation on true leadership (Matthew 21:18) and a dissertation on false leadership (Matthew 21:23), this sub-section on authority also forms a unit. It commences with a challenge by the leadership concerning His authority (Matthew 21:23) and finishes with a challenge by Jesus concerning His authority (Matthew 22:41). Within these two inclusios are three parables concerning the authority of the Kingly Rule of Heaven which John and He have introduced, followed by three attempts to expose His inability to deal with the questions of the day, in all of which He puts his opponents to rout and reveals His own religious authority. Thus His and John's authority are revealed in seven ways. They proceed as follows;

Jesus is questioned as to His authority (Matthew 21:23).

The parable of the two sons in which He establishes John's authority (Matthew 21:28).

The parable of the unfaithful tenants in which He establishes His own Sonship and authority (Matthew 21:33).

The parable of the marriage feast of the King's Son in which He confirms His Sonship and authority (Matthew 22:1).

The test concerning tribute money on which He stamps His authority (Matthew 22:15).

The test concerning the resurrection on which He again stamps His authority (Matthew 22:23).

The test concerning what is the greatest commandment in the Law which is further evidence of His authority (Matthew 22:34).

Jesus then confirms His supreme authority from Scripture (Matthew 22:41).