Matthew’s concern is not merely to indicate which power is greater, but more to describe the defining qualities and outcomes of each. The power that human authorities wield, even if in the name of God, persistently brings division, violence, and death. Jesus’ authority, on the other hand, yields healing, restoration, liberation, and life. The scenes of Jesus’ torture and crucifixion show us the defining expressions of these alternative forms of power.

Matthew’s interest in the nature of power has deep roots in the stories of Israel’s enslavement and exile, as well as the founding and development of the monarchy under Saul, David, Solomon, and the rest of the kings, including the truth-to-power proclamations of the prophets. The earliest canonical interest in power, however, occurs already in the creation stories of Genesis, preeminently when God grants “dominion” to humankind (Genesis 1:26-28). We should read the grant of dominion not as permission ...