And so it was, when Jesus had ended these sayings, that the people were astonished at His teaching, for He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes. – Matthew 7:28-29
As we continue to think about the idea of real authority, I have been fascinated with these two verses for a while now. It catches my attention to see that Jesus spoke with authority and not as the scribes. The Scribes and Pharisees had position and they had power yet did not teach with authority. This tells me that there is a difference between position/power and real authority. As the Lord leads, I want to talk more about what the difference is, but I am also fascinated by the word “astonished”. The original Greek word used here implies they were “blown away” by His teaching.
In past times, including Bible times, the people would take their grain, shake it and/or toss it into the air and catch it again. During this process the chaff would be blown away, leaving the seeds of grain. This is where the real nourishment comes from.
In this day and age, as it was in Bible times, there is a lot of chaff blowing around out there, and people are looking for where real nourishment for their souls can be found. In the story of the farmer and the different kind of the soils, Jesus compared the Word of God to seed being sown or planted. Look at just a few of the hundreds of things the Word of God can do in our lives.
Psalms 119:2, 9, 11, 41-42
(2) Blessed [are] those who keep His testimonies, who seek Him with the whole heart!
The Word of the Lord brings blessings and Joy.
(9) How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word.
The Word of the Lord keeps a child on the right road in life.
(11) Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You.
The Word of the Lord keeps us from sin.
(41) Let Your mercies come also to me, O LORD–Your salvation according to Your word. (42) So shall I have an answer for him who reproaches me, For I trust in Your word.
The word of the Lord prepares us for when (not if) we come up against someone or something that opposes us.
As a parent you have the primary role and position in life to raise and influence your children. There are many influences out there which are trying to have authority in your family. That is why it is important that you allow God’s word sort out the chaff from the real food, which nourishes the soul.
Ask Jesus today to forgive and remove the sin and chaff in your life, and to provide you with real nourishment for your soul. Only He can provide the nourishment your soul needs and desires.
Until next time…