The first
reading presents us with the story of God’s promise to the Israelites that He
will raise up another prophet like Moses who will lead them. They are to
recognize this prophet through the authority and integrity he will exercise in
his words and actions. God however, warned against abusing this authority by
saying things not ordered by them.
In
the gospel reading, we find the perfect fulfillment of this promise in the life
of Christ. The gospel records that “his teaching made a deep impression on them
because, unlike the scribes, he taught them with authority”. This authority was
seen in Jesus’ words and actions. A perfect example is seen also in the gospel
in his encounter with the unclean spirit. The unclean spirit even recognized
Jesus’ authority. The gospel also mentioned that “he gives orders even to
