Definition: And say unto him, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority to do these things?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Mark 11:28. It's a really important question that gets at the core of how we understand God's power and our role in the world. Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is asking us to consider if we have the right to do things that seem to be outside the normal rules or boundaries of the universe. It’s about questioning whether we’re being given authority to act in ways that go beyond what’s naturally possible. Let's unpack it piece by piece: "And say unto him, By what authority doest thou these things?" – This is a direct question to the speaker (Mark). They’re essentially asking why someone is doing something they shouldn't be. It suggests there's a reason behind the action. "...and who gave thee this authority to do these things?" – This is the crucial part. The speaker is challenging the person performing the action. They’re asking: “Who has allowed you to do this?” What it could mean – Different Interpretations: This verse isn't necessarily about giving us authority. It’s more about our responsibility and understanding of God’s power. Here are a few possible interpretations, depending on how we look at the meaning: God’s Sovereignty: It suggests that God is in control of everything, and we don't have absolute power to change reality. We can ask questions and express our opinions, but ultimately, God decides what happens. Divine Law & Boundaries: It could be a reminder that there are rules and boundaries set by God for our lives – things like being honest, treating others with respect, and following ethical principles. We don’t get to arbitrarily violate those rules. Responsibility: It emphasizes the importance of understanding why we're given certain powers or privileges. We need to be thoughtful about how we use them. In essence, it’s a call for humility – reminding us that we are not masters of everything and that our actions should always consider the consequences. Important Note: Different theological traditions interpret this verse in slightly different ways. Some emphasize God's absolute authority, while others focus more on human responsibility and ethical consideration. --- To help me explain it even better for you , could you tell me: What are you hoping to understand about this verse? (Are you curious about a specific interpretation?) Are there any particular aspects of the verse that you're finding confusing?