Albert Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible - Matthew 21:23-27
See also Mark 11:27-33; Luke 20:1-9.Matthew 21:23When he was come into the temple - That is, probably, into the inner court - the court of the Israelites.They took this opportunity of questioning him on this subject when he was not surrounded by the multitude.By what authority ... - There was a show of propriety in this question. He was making great changes in the affairs of the temple, and they claimed the right to know why this was done, contrary to their permission. He was not “a priest;” he... read more
The Pulpit Commentary - Matthew 21:24
Christ become a Questioner. Those who came to Christ on this occasion were distinctly officials, representatives of the Sanhedrin, the council which claimed and exercised authority in all matters related to religion. "Before its tribunal false prophets were arraigned. It dealt with questions of doctrine, and, when occasion arose, could exercise the functions of a council." "In the New Testament we see Christ before the Sanhedrin as a blasphemer ( Matthew 26:65 ); the Apostles Peter and... read more