Authority (Proper A5)

I didn’t know what to make of these texts so I took a look at the gospel’s context in Matthew and the context in the synoptics:

The Kingdom extended under Jesus’ Authority (8:1-11:1)

Healing the paralytic (9:1-8)

Authority to forgive (9:6)

Authority in calling Matthew (9:9) He does not hesitate

Eats with sinners – sick need a physician not the well (9:9-13)

Eats-Celebrate while the bridegroom is there, fast when he is gone, (9:14-15)

Don’t put new wine in old skins (9:16-17)

Healings (9:18-26) Connecting these healings to the sayings above is uniquely Matthew.

2 blind men (9:27-31)

Cast out demons (9:32-34)

Harvest (9:35-38)

Commission 12 (10:1-16)

This section explores Jesus’ authority, in his call, in his actions, and in his mighty works.
Authority is a good heading for the other readings as well.

Abram’s experience is like that of Matthew. God calls and his authority demands a response. For Matthew it meant leaving his tax table behind, Abram his country. What we don’t see is deliberation or hesitation. Weather there was any or not, the point is that in the end there is no questioning God’s authority.

The psalmist declares, “By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, and all their host by the breath of his mouth.” He goes on to describe what his authority has accomplished.

The Romans hear the authority of God, not in the law, or his commands but in Faith, “being fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised.”

The Hosea and Psalm alternate readings also explore authority in terms of his judgment and promises.

The past few weeks have been building his authority. What will we do with it?