By What Authority?
Pastor Rick continued our study of Matthew 21 with the story of the fig tree Jesus cursed on His way back into Jerusalem during the final week of His life. He explained that the withered fig tree points to Israel’s rejection of the Messiah and reminds us of three truths: Jesus’ genuine humanity (He was hungry), His authority as Creator (He spoke and the tree died), and the power of faith. The sermon closed with the chief priests challenging Jesus’ authority, revealing that everything ultimately comes down to what we believe about Jesus.