Today we live in an anti-authoritarian age - often expressed in music and art. We accept our laws and their authority.
1. What authority does Jesus have (v1,2). To teach in the temple you needed to be 'authorised'. But who is this nobody, Jesus? They wanted to silence Him, despite His miracles. Jesus does not give an answer, instead asks them a question. (v4). They were stumped. They refused to accept Jesus' authority was from God - the highest authority.
2. Rebellion against this authority (v9-19) - Parable based and background Isaiah 5:1-7 parable. The leaders knew they were symbolised by the tenants (v19) in that they had failed to lead the people to God. The vineyard owner finally sends his son (v14-16) - later we see them crying 'crucify Him'. Consequence of rejection (v15-16). God is not someone to brush aside. Jesus the cornerstone (v17,18).
Only two responses to the question, 'Is He Lord?' - (a) No. Have we really looked into who Jesus is? (b) Yes. Following Jesus puts things the right way around - but it is a constant challenge of submitting to His Lordship.
