And he answered and said unto them, I will also ask you one thing, and answer me: the baptism of John, was it from Heaven or of men? Luke 20:3,4
Arguments and word games and one-upmanship were flying all around us as our nation prepared for a general election. Every political party has its ‘spin doctors’, those so-called experts who can take any situation and present it so as to make their own party look the best. Seldom are these characters at a loss for words, whether it be a recitation of party rhetoric or a burst of confusing bafflegab, or a witty retort to an opponent’s barbs. We heard it every day, as the election campaign heated up. These folks are normally good debaters, but they would have had a hard time combatting the chief priests and scribes who frequented the temple in Jesus’ day. But those so-called experts were tongue-tied when Jesus asked them a question they didn’t dare to answer. His words are just as powerful today.
Jesus’ wisdom is apparent as he encounters the braintrust of Israel. With one small question, He has them fumbling and stammering, helpless before Him. His words are impossible to refute, His authority is impossible to challenge, and His presence is impossible to ignore. This is as true today as the day that Jesus confounded the temple bullies. As we encounter the opponents of the Lord Jesus in our daily experiences, we do well to remember the power of His words. And we should use His words as we seek to represent Him.
What do we say when we encounter opponents of the Gospel? How do we challenge those who deny the deity and lordship of Jesus Christ? How do we challenge those who ridicule the Word of God or deny the existence of the Almighty? Most of the time, we don’t try. We avoid confronting those people, and much of the time that is the wisest policy. But there are times when we can’t avoid confrontations. There are times when the scoffers and scorners challenge us, like they did in the temple with Jesus. The Word of God is always our best sword on such occasions. We are never wrong to quote Scripture, because it is never wrong.
Can you answer Jesus’ question? More importantly, can you ask such a question when the scoffers come? Quote Jesus’ words, and you will do fine. -Jim MacIntosh