In Matthew 21:23, the religious leaders questioned Jesus, “By what authority are you doing these things?” (NIV)
But Jesus didn’t answer them directly. Instead, He answered them with a question of His own.
Matthew 21:24-25 tells us that Jesus replied, “I will also ask you one question. If you answer me, I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. John’s baptism, where did it come from? Was it from heaven, or of human origin?” (NIV)
The leaders immediately begin calculating,
not truthfully answering, but politically strategizing there answer.
Maybe they thought, “If we say “from heaven,” He’ll ask why we didn’t believe John. If we say “from men,” we fear that the crowd will rise against us.”
But the real issue here is that they weren’t pursuing truth,
they were protecting their position.
And Jesus’ question brings that hidden motive into the light.
He isn’t intimidated by their authority.
He isn’t rushed into defending Himself.
He stands secure in who He is.
And for us:
When we’re questioned, we don’t have to react – we can respond with wisdom.
When our motives are mixed, Jesus will lovingly bring us back to our honesty motive.
And when we come to Him sincerely, He always meets us with truth.
Because God isn’t just interested in giving us information,
He’s interested in internal transformation.
And transformation always begins with honesty.
So today, if you have questions for God, bring them.
Be as honest as you can.
And be ready for Him to transform you in the process.