And Jesus answered and said unto them, I also will ask you one thing, which if ye tell me, I in like wise will tell you by what authority I do these things.
MATTHEW 21:24KJVWhat does Matthew 21:24 mean?
Matthew 21:24 shows Jesus responding to a challenge from religious leaders by saying He will also ask them a question, and if they answer Him, He will tell them by what authority He does what He does. Jesus is turning their question back on them, making His answer depend on their willingness to respond honestly.
In this scene, Jesus is speaking to the chief priests and elders in the temple after they questioned His authority. Instead of answering directly, Jesus sets a condition: He will reveal the source of His authority if they first answer His question. This approach puts the religious leaders in a difficult position and highlights Jesus’ wisdom in dealing with their challenge.
The Greek behind Matthew 21:24
- The word for "authority" is ἐξουσία (exousia), which often means the right or power to act. Here, it emphasizes the official or divine source behind Jesus’ actions, which is exactly what the leaders are questioning.
- The phrase "in like wise" is from κἀγώ (kagō), meaning "I also" or "I likewise." This shows Jesus is making a fair exchange—He will answer if they do.
- The Greek word for "ask" is ἐρωτάω (erōtaō), which can mean to request or question. Jesus is not just deflecting; He is engaging them in a dialogue that tests their sincerity.
Why Matthew 21:24 matters
- This verse shows Jesus’ skill in handling attempts to trap Him, revealing His wisdom and authority in a tense situation.
- The exchange sets up the following verses, where Jesus’ question exposes the leaders’ unwillingness to answer truthfully, highlighting their motives.
- Understanding this moment helps clarify the tension between Jesus and the religious authorities, a key theme throughout Matthew’s account.