Mark 11:27-33
The Pharisees will not let up on their questioning of Jesus' authority. It must have been frustrating, although not unexpected, for Jesus. This time Jesus turns the tables on his accusers.

"I will ask you one question," Jesus replies in verses 29 and 30. (emphasis added). "Answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. John's baptism--was it from heaven or from men? Tell me!" (NIV)

The Pharisees answered that they didn't know. First of all, if they answered John's baptism was from men, they feared the people's reaction, who believed John was a prophet. But if they said John's baptism was from heaven, Jesus would ask why they didn't believe him, then.

So, Jesus replied that he would not tell them by what authority he was doing his miracles and teachings. They would not have believed him anyway.

On the contrary, when we come to Jesus with sincere questions and honest hearts, he is ready and willing to hear us and meet our needs. We need to make sure our motives are pure and that we are willing to hear what answers he has for us. As his children, we can come before a loving God and expect a response that is best for us.

- posted by Suzi @ 6:50 AM