The Authority of Jesus

 “The Authority of Jesus”

Reflection on  Mark 1:21–28

In today’s Gospel from Mark 1:21-28, we are introduced to Jesus as He begins His public ministry by teaching in the synagogue at Capernaum. The people are amazed—not just at what He says—but at how He says it. "He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes."

This authority of Jesus is not like any other. The scribes taught by quoting others, relying on past traditions and interpretations of the Law. But Jesus speaks directly and confidently, as someone who doesn’t just know the truth, but is the Truth. His authority is not borrowed; it is inherent. And the people can sense that.

But it’s not just the people who recognize His authority—so do the spiritual forces of evil. In the synagogue, a man with an unclean spirit cries out, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!” Even the demons know who Jesus is. And with a simple command, “Be quiet! Come out of him!”, Jesus expels the demon. There is no struggle, no ritual, just a word—and evil obeys.

This moment reveals two important truths for us as Christians:

First, Jesus has power over evil. The Gospel reminds us that the spiritual battle is real. There is darkness in the world, but we are not alone. Jesus is not a distant teacher with lofty ideals—He is a Savior who confronts evil head-on. His authority is not just about preaching love, but about liberating people from what binds them: sin, addiction, fear, despair.

Second, Jesus speaks with authority because His words bring life and healing. As Catholics, we hear His Word proclaimed at every Mass. The same Jesus who cast out demons in Capernaum is present in His Word and Sacraments. When we receive Him in the Eucharist, when we turn to Him in prayer, or when we seek forgiveness in confession, we are encountering that same divine authority—one that heals, restores, and sets us free.

But here’s the challenge: do we allow Jesus to speak with authority in our lives? Or do we treat His Word as optional advice? When He says, “Forgive,” do we listen? When He says, “Come, follow me,” do we respond? Too often, we prefer the voices of the world—our pride, our fears, our desires—over the voice of Christ.

So today, let us ask for the grace to recognize the authority of Jesus—not as something that threatens us, but as something that frees us. Let us allow Him to enter the "synagogue" of our hearts, to drive out the darkness within us, and to teach us again what it means to live in the light of God.

Key Takeaway:
Jesus speaks and acts with divine authority to liberate and heal. Let us welcome His authority into our lives, trusting that His word brings true freedom, peace, and transformation.