- And it came to pass, that on one of those days, as he taught the people in the temple, and preached the gospel, the chief priests and the scribes came upon him with the elders,
- And spake unto him, saying, Tell us, by what authority doest thou these things? or who is he that gave thee this authority?
- 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?
- And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say, Why then believed ye him not?
- But and if we say, Of men; all the people will stone us: for they be persuaded that John was a prophet.
- And they answered, that they could not tell whence it was.
- And Jesus said unto them, Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things.
In temple courts, where questions flew,
Christ met their scorn with grace anew.
“Whence comes the baptism John proclaimed?”
A trap for hearts, so falsely framed.
Yet, Jesus knew their hidden spite,
Still offered love in endless light.
Though priests and Pharisees might wail,
His truth, His grace would still prevail.
For every barb and veiled deceit,
He answered not in wrath’s defeat.
With wisdom deep and mercy wide,
He loved the ones who Him denied.