I am one of those people that is a little more cautious to interact when I encounter a new situation. I have come to realize that I am simply doing research as to what is acceptable so as to not step out of the norms of the situation. I also find myself looking for the authority in the room that I may be able to not overstep my own authority.
“21And they went into Capernaum, and immediately on the Sabbath he entered the synagogue and was teaching. 22And they were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as on who had authority, and not as the scribes.” – Mark 1:21-22 (ESV)
Jesus, being who he was, went immediately to the synagogue and began doing that which He was great at, teaching. And, everyone picked up on the fact that He was different than others that came in teaching. He carried Himself and spoke with authority they had not experienced before.
“23And immediately there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit. And he cried out, 24’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.’” – Mark 1:23-24 (ESV)
And now there was fear among those that knew just what the authority of Jesus meant to them. This unclean spirit was afraid of Jesus and His authority. Jesus had the authority to destroy those unclean spirits and this one was trying to get to the bottom of Jesus’ presence here. Even evil knew who Jesus was.
Jesus drove the unclean spirit out of the man and all the people were amazed.
“27And they were all amazed, so that they questioned among themselves, saying, ‘What is this? A new teaching with authority! He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him.’” – Mark 1:27 (ESV)
And now that the people understood who Jesus was, they did as most of us do, they spread the word.
“28And at once his fame spread everywhere throughout the surrounding region of Galilee.” – Mark 1:28 (ESV)
Here we find that those that witnessed wanted others to know as well. No different from us today. The speed of the news travel was slower then, but the action of the people was the same. Astonishment of what they saw, recognition of the authority, and relaying the information forward so others would recognize.
Jesus has authority beyond what we can comprehend. We may think we know, but until witnessed, we are to be aware of when He may appear so as to recognize.
When you are in situations, what are you looking for? Are you aware of your actions specifically and the actions of those around you? Are you able to recognize the authority?
Trevor's Thoughts 