DYNAMIS &amp; EXOUSIA

DYNAMIS & EXOUSIA

Since Mark’s Gospel is being read, right now, as the basis for the daily Lectionary’s readings, I have said this before, but it’s worth repeating, I think. There is a huge difference between “power” and “authority,” and it’s important to understand this difference in the life and ministry of Jesus.

Dynamis is “power”—it gives us the word “dynamic.” Exousia is “authority”—it tells us where the power comes from. The first is obvious in the case of the ministry of Jesus: He heals and casts out demons. The second is the big issue: where does this power come from?

Why should there be a question at all? I think we can get a glimpse of the quandary of the Pharisees by looking at the discussion in John 10:19ff: “Again there was division (schismos; schism) among the Jews… Many of them said, ‘He is possessed…’ Others said, ‘…surely a demon cannot open the eyes of the blind, can he?’” And why might others, faithful Jews, think Jesus in league with Satan? He seemed to play fast and loose with Sabbath observances and practices of fasting, and to re-interpret precepts of Torah. So: might His power come as a vehicle for dissuading observant Jews from their commitment to God?

We know where Jesus claims authority: when He declares the sins of the paralyzed man to be forgiven, and then “proves” it by healing him. “But if it is by the finger of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you” (Luke 11:20).

So, we must “pays our money and makes our choice”—is He the Savior, or is he a demonic deceiver? He has the power, as is obvious—where does it come from: God, or Satan? Who do you say that Jesus is??? Please: no pious quotes from Scripture here: who do YOU say He is?

The answer to this question (the one you or I authentically make) is the primary purpose of the Gospel of St Mark.
-Fr. David