Root of Authority Mark 1:21-28 Father Mark's sermon focuses on the unique authority of Jesus as depicted in the Gospel story, where Jesus teaches and performs an exorcism in a synagogue. He contrasts Jesus' innate authority with the external, institutional authority of the scribes. The people in the synagogue recognized Jesus' authority as emanating from his essence and connection with God, rather than from any official position. Father Mark also explores how Christian authority has evolved, discussing the shift from institutional authority to scriptural authority during the Protestant Reformation. He introduces a balanced approach to understanding scripture, incorporating Scripture, Tradition, Reason, and Experience. The sermon encourages embracing these diverse sources to grow in wisdom and deepen one's spiritual understanding. Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.