Reflections on the Messianic Words and Actions of Jesus

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Reflections on Chapter 18 (The Messianic Words and Actions of Jesus)
* A critical evaluation of the words Jesus uttered and the actions he performed can reveal a great deal about his own perception concerning the nation of Israel and its scriptural heritage. According to the author, this may answer the critical question of how Jesus understood his identity and purpose. An in-depth evaluation of the nature of the movement that stemmed from his followers can be a credible source of valuable insights into Jesus’ mission and purpose (p. 564).
The Authorities Jesus Exercised
* The first authority that Jesus demonstrated was announcing and inaugurating the kingdom of God. The author asserts that this was immensely significant in the context of the history of Israel because Jesus declared that he could bring restoration to Israel and wholeness to the world. Essentially, he viewed himself as God’s agent to bring final salvation (p. 564).
* Jesus also exercised authority over demons and diseases, and while doing so, he invoked the name of God. This gave credence to his claim that he was the inaugurator of God’s kingdom on earth. Similarly, his healings signified that prophet Isaiah's signs about the new age had finally seen the light of day (p. 565). In addition, Jesus exercised the authority to speak for God, which he did by using the word "Amen." The word, which Jesus repeatedly used, literally means "confirmed" or "verified." By using it, Jesus illustrated that he understood his sense of divine authority and that he was God's representative (p.565).
* According to the author, one authority Jesus exercised that sparked considerable contentions from the Pharisees and scribes was his authority over the Sabbath. Jesus acknowledged the law and declared that he had not come to do away with it; however, he demonstrated unprecedented authority to make some amends on it for the convenience of the new age (p.566). Again, Jesus illustrates his sense of divine authority and also shows that besides being the law's interpreter, he is its fulfillment (p. 567)
* The authority to forgive sins that Jesus practiced was an extraordinary claim that generated considerable opposition from his detractors. They held that the forgiveness of sins was God’s exclusive preserve, which Jesus was contravening. By forgiving sins, Jesus demonstrates the presence and power of God’s kingdom. In addition, Jesus exercised authority at the final judgment. He astonished people by declaring that their destiny depended on how they responded to his teachings (p. 568). This declaration implicitly implied that he had divine power.
The Aims o...