The Bible verse Luke 20:2 in the King James Version (KJV) states: "And spake unto him, saying, Tell us, by what authority doest thou these things? or who is he that gave thee this authority?"

This verse is a part of a larger passage in the book of Luke, in which Jesus is teaching in the temple in Jerusalem. The chief priests and scribes, who were the religious leaders of the Jewish people, were questioning Jesus about the authority by which he was teaching and performing miracles. This question is significant because it is an attempt to discredit Jesus and undermine his authority as a religious leader.

The context in which this verse appears is important for understanding its meaning. At this point in the book of Luke, Jesus has already been teaching and performing miracles, which has gained him a following among the people. However, his teachings and actions have also brought him into conflict with the religious authorities, who were suspicious of his claims and fearful of the influence he was gaining. This confrontation sets the stage for the larger conflict between Jesus and the religious leaders that ultimately leads to his arrest and crucifixion.

The themes present in this verse are authority, power, and the divine mission of Jesus. The chief priests and scribes, as representatives of the religious establishment, are challenging Jesus to justify his actions and teachings. They are essentially asking him to prove that he has the authority to do what he is doing and that this authority comes from a legitimate source. This theme of authority is central to the larger narrative of Jesus' ministry, as he repeatedly asserts his own authority as the Son of God and the fulfillment of the prophecies in the Hebrew Scriptures.

The symbolism in this verse is also significant. The question posed by the religious leaders is not just a practical inquiry about Jesus' credentials; it is a symbolic challenge to his identity and mission. By asking about his authority, they are essentially questioning whether he is who he claims to be and whether his actions are in line with the will of God. This sets up a larger conflict between Jesus and the religious establishment, as he confronts their hypocrisy and challenges their interpretation of the law.

In response to their question, Jesus goes on to tell a parable about a man who planted a vineyard and leased it out to tenants. When the owner of the vineyard sends servants to collect the fruit, the tenants mistreat and kill them. Finally, the owner sends his own son, whom the tenants also kill. This parable serves as a metaphor for the relationship between God and the religious leaders of Israel, with Jesus as the son sent by God to confront their corruption and hypocrisy.

Overall, Luke 20:2 is a pivotal verse in the larger narrative of Jesus' ministry and the conflict between him and the religious leaders. It raises important questions about authority, power, and the divine mission of Jesus, and it sets the stage for the larger conflict that will ultimately lead to his crucifixion. The themes, context, and symbolism in this verse all contribute to its significance within the larger story of Jesus' life and teachings.