A SERIES OF DEVOTIONS BASED ON THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO MATTHEW 

BY JESUS’ AUTHORITY      

Matthew 21:23 “By what authority are you doing these things?” they asked. “And who gave you this authority?” 

There are those who are offended when they hear a Christian pastor say at the beginning of the worship service, immediately following the confession of sins: “Almighty God in His mercy has given His Son to die for you and for His sake forgives you all your sins. As a called and ordained servant of Christ, and by His authority, I therefore forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” (LSB, Divine Service, Setting II) 

Their taking offence comes because they have not carefully listened to what the pastor has said. They only hear the pastor say, “I forgive you all your sins.” They miss all the other words he says as He announces, as he gives a formal declaration of a fact when he forgives all your sins. The prior words of his statement are foundational to the forgiveness he announces. It is by Christ’s authority that your sins are forgiven. The pastor’s words have the very authority and power of Jesus Himself. Because Jesus lived, died, and rose again for their forgiveness, your sins are forgiven. 

The chief priests and elders of the people did not accept nor believe Jesus was the Messiah, the one sent by God for the forgiveness of their sins. They were convinced in their heart that their sins were forgiven through their many temple sacrifices and daily commitment to obey the laws, rules and customs that had been passed down to them by their ancestors.   

There is, however, only one way to receive God’s forgiveness. It is yours by God’s grace through faith which He alone gives you in His Son. (see Ephesians 2:8-9) Acts 4:12 says there is salvation in no other one than Jesus. If you believe in Him, you shall be saved. (John 3:16, 18, 36)  

Prayer: Holy Spirit, grant me a heart to receive the forgiveness of my sins by the authority of Jesus. In His holy name. Amen. 

I lay my sins on Jesus, The spotless Lamb of God;  
He bears them all and frees us From the accursed load.  
I bring my guilt to Jesus Tow ash my crimson stains  
Clean in His blood most precious Till not a spot remains. 

I lay my wants on Jesus; All fullness dwells in Him;  
He heals all my diseases; My soul He does redeem.  
I lay my griefs on Jesus, My burdens and my cares;  
He from them all releases; He all my sorrows shares. 

I rest my soul on Jesus, This weary soul of mine;  
His right hand me embraces; I on His breast recline.  
I love the name of Jesus, Immanuel, Christ, the Lord;  
Like fragrance on the breezes His name abroad is poured.  

I Lay My Sins on Jesus // LSB 606