Luke 20:3

In Luke 20:3, Jesus masterfully responds to the chief priests, scribes, and elders who had challenged His authority while He was teaching in the temple (Luke 20:1-2). Rather than directly answering their loaded question designed to trap Him, Jesus turns the tables. He proposes a counter-question, setting the stage for a profound demonstration of His wisdom and discernment.

Context

This verse is pivotal in the ongoing confrontation between Jesus and the religious establishment in Jerusalem, particularly during the week leading up to His crucifixion. The religious leaders were not genuinely seeking understanding; they sought grounds for accusation, asking, "By what authority doest thou these things? or who is he that gave thee this authority?" (Luke 20:2). Jesus' response in this verse is a classic example of rabbinic debate strategy, where a question is met with another question, forcing the interrogators to reveal their true intentions and allegiances.

Key Themes

• Jesus' Divine Wisdom: This verse highlights Jesus' unparalleled intellect and strategic thinking. He navigates a hostile environment not by brute force or simple answers, but by profound wisdom that disarms His adversaries. This echoes the wisdom promised to those who seek God (James 1:5).
• Authority Challenged and Affirmed: While the religious leaders question Jesus' authority, His very method of response subtly affirms it. He demonstrates a superior authority by His ability to expose their hypocrisy and inability to answer a simple, yet loaded, question of their own.
• Turning the Tables: Jesus does not fall into their trap. Instead, He creates a dilemma for them, forcing them to consider the implications of their own beliefs and public standing regarding John the Baptist.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "I will also ask you one thing" translates from the Greek "ἐρωτήσω ὑμᾶς κἀγὼ λόγον ἕνα" (erōtēsō hymas kagō logon hena). The word "λόγον" (logos) here means 'a word,' 'a saying,' or 'a matter/question.' It signifies not just a simple query, but a significant point or proposition that demands a thoughtful, and in this case, revealing answer. Jesus is not merely asking a question; He is posing a challenge that will expose the spiritual and intellectual bankruptcy of His interrogators.

Practical Application

This passage offers valuable lessons for believers today:

• Discernment in Conflict: Jesus teaches us to exercise wisdom and discernment when facing opposition or challenging questions, especially when motives are impure. Not every question deserves a direct answer, particularly if it's designed to entrap or mislead.
• Trust in God's Wisdom: We are reminded that God's wisdom is infinitely greater than human cunning. When confronted with difficult situations, we can trust that He provides the right response or strategy, often in unexpected ways (Proverbs 3:5-6).
• Integrity Over Expediency: The religious leaders were more concerned with their reputation and power than with truth. Jesus, through His counter-question, highlights the importance of integrity and genuine seeking of truth, rather than political maneuvering.