1. The question of authority (11:27-12:12)

Jesus' action in the temple gives rise to a question about his authority. While refusing to answer the Jewish leaders directly, the parable of the tenants gives his indirect answer: He is the Son of God. At the same time, he alludes to his impending death (like the prophets and John the Baptist before him), and to God’s giving salvation to the Gentiles. That the Jewish leaders grasp the intent of the parable is clear from their response in 12:12.