FINAL POWER AND AUTHORITY

Matt.28:18 – And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.

This verse has always mesmerized me. Obviously Christ carried authority on earth throughout His ministry. How could He not? He turned water into wine, multiplied fish and bread, calmed storms, walked on water, healed the sick, drove out demons, and even raised people from the dead. What could Jesus possibly be talking about? He had now received power over all things in heaven and earth, literally the whole universe, as a man. This power and authority is being displayed as Christ now sits on the throne of God ruling all things with His words. This is absolutely stunning. Nothing in all creation escapes His notice. On earth He has delegated His authority to us. He rules through our words, actions, and prayers. Here is how the Expositor’s Commentary describes this.

“All dominates vv.18-20 and ties these verses together: all authority, all nations, all things (“everything,” NIV), all the days (“always,” NIV). The authority of Jesus Messiah has already been heavily stressed in this gospel (e.g., 7:29; 10:1, 7-8; et al.). Therefore it is wrong to claim that the Resurrection conferred on Jesus an authority incomparably greater than what he enjoyed before his crucifixion. The truth is more subtle. After all, during his ministry his words, like God’s words, cannot pass away (24:35); and he, like God, forgives sin (9:6). It is not Jesus’ authority per se that becomes more absolute. Rather, the spheres in which he now exercises absolute authority are enlarged to include all heaven and earth, the entire universe. The Son becomes the one through whom all God’s authority is mediated. It marks a turning point in redemptive history, for Messiah’s “kingdom” has dawned in new power.”

Not only is Christ exerting His authority for me, He is also displaying His power and authority through me. Recently we had an incredible large altar call at our production Beyond the Grave. I was privileged to give the appeal. The Lord drew the people to the meeting, put the words in my mouth, convicted people of their sin and their need for Christ, forgave their sins, and gave them a new heart. Surely all authority is in His hands but surprisingly He works through us.