New Testament
Luke 20:2
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the religious leaders confront Jesus, questioning the source of His authority to teach and perform miracles.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
They demanded, "Tell us — by what authority are you doing these things? Who gave you this authority?"
And spake unto him, saying, Tell us, by what authority doest thou these things? or who is he that gave thee this authority?
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the religious leaders confront Jesus, questioning the source of His authority to teach and perform miracles. They are skeptical and want to know who has empowered Him to act in such a way. This challenge reflects their concern over His growing influence and the threat He poses to their established religious order. By asking about His authority, they are trying to undermine His credibility and assert their own power. Jesus' response to this question, which follows in the text, reveals His wisdom and understanding of their motives. This interaction highlights the tension between Jesus and the religious authorities, setting the stage for further conflict as He continues His ministry. It also emphasizes the importance of recognizing true authority, especially in spiritual matters, and challenges readers to consider where they place their trust and who they follow in their own lives.
How to apply Luke 20:2 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on the sources of authority in our lives. It challenges us to consider who we listen to and follow, especially in spiritual matters. We should seek to understand the true authority of Jesus and how it impacts our beliefs and actions.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 20:2 mean?
In Luke 20:2, the religious leaders question Jesus about the authority behind His teachings and miracles. They are skeptical of His influence and seek to challenge His credibility.
What is the significance of authority in Luke 20:2?
The significance of authority in Luke 20:2 lies in the challenge posed by the religious leaders to Jesus' legitimacy. Their inquiry reflects their concern over His growing influence and the threat He poses to their established power.
Who were the religious leaders questioning Jesus in Luke 20:2?
The religious leaders in Luke 20:2 were likely members of the Sanhedrin, including Pharisees and Sadducees, who were concerned about maintaining their authority and control over the people.
What does this verse reveal about Jesus' relationship with religious authorities?
This verse reveals a tense relationship between Jesus and the religious authorities, as they confront Him to undermine His authority. It highlights their skepticism and fear of losing their influence.

The Book of Luke
Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold
In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.
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