Matthew 21:23

When he was come. [The Leaders Challenge Jesus’ Authority, Matt. 21:23-27=Mark 11:27-33=Luke 20:1-8. Major comment: Matthew. See Closing Ministry at Jerusalem; the Passion Week.] This occasion, the Tuesday before the Passover A. D. 31, was the last time Jesus taught in the Temple. He was already teaching the people when accosted by the leaders (see Luke 20:1).

Chief priests. See on ch. 2:4. Many of “the chief priests” were Sadducees, as most of the scribes were Pharisees. Both Mark (ch. 11:27) and Luke (ch. 20:1) include the scribes in their accounts of this incident.

Elders. The Sanhedrin had already met, earlier in the morning, and had determined to demand of Jesus His credentials (see DA 593). Possibly some of the same men who now confronted Him may have been among the number sent to John the Baptist with a similar question three and a half years before (see on John 1:19). If so they had heard John declare Jesus to be the Messiah (see John 1:26, 27, 29).

By what authority? At the First Cleansing of the Temple the Jewish leaders had demanded a “sign” as proof of Jesus’ authority to teach (see John 2:18). Since that time the leaders of Israel had been provided with repeated evidences of Jesus’ power and authority (see on Matt. 16:1). The Jews recognized that prophets might teach the people without rabbinical approval, but expected them to give evidence of their divine commission. Now, by their question, the Jewish leaders sought incriminating evidence against Jesus.

These things. That is, His Triumphal Entry, His cleansing of the Temple, and now, His teaching in the Temple courts.