“Tell us by what authority You are doing these things, or who is the one who gave You this authority?” Luke 20:2

Read Luke 20:1-8, Temple Leaders Confront Jesus

Jesus was dealing with enemies whose minds were controlled by Satan, and they suffered the same fate as their master did in the wilderness (Luke 4:4-13). They were outsmarted. They had cornered him and asked on whose authority he was saying and doing these things (i.e., clearing the temple).

In turn, Jesus asks them about the origin of John the Baptist’s authority to baptize, from God or men? They were immediately painted into a corner. Say “God” and Jesus would say why don’t you accept his words then? Say “men,” and John’s followers would vehemently and perhaps violently object. On the horns of a dilemma, the leaders refused to answer the Master’s question, and neither did he theirs.

Always remember that you too possess the mind of God, and that his word is readily available to you in these kinds of sticky situations.

Jesus would later say to his disciples, “So make up your minds not to prepare beforehand to defend yourselves; for I will give you utterance and wisdom which none of your opponents will be able to resist or refute.” Luke 21:14-15

It may not end well for us, but the message will have been transmitted. That’s what’s important.