The Bible study on Matthew 28:18, leads us to reflect on the powerful statement of Jesus: “All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth.” These words of Jesus reveal His absolute sovereignty over all things, both in heaven and on earth. In this study, we will explore the meaning of this statement and its relevance to our faith and spiritual journey. As we delve deeper into this truth, we discover how much we can trust and depend on Jesus, the Lord of the entire universe.
As we study Matthew 28:18, we are confronted with the magnificence of Jesus’ power and authority. He claims that all authority has been given to Him, which means that He has supremacy and dominion over all things. This authority is not just limited to earth, but also encompasses heaven. Jesus is King of kings and Lord of lords, exercising His sovereignty over all that exists.
Throughout the Bible, we find several verses that corroborate this truth about the power and authority of Jesus. In Philippians 2:9-11 , we read: “Wherefore God also highly exalted him, and gave him the name which is above every name; so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
This statement emphasizes the universality of Jesus’ authority, with all creatures acknowledging His supremacy. There is no power or authority that can compare to that of Jesus. He is above all and rules with justice and love.
The Practical Application of the Authority of Jesus
Although Jesus holds all authority in heaven and on earth, we might wonder how this applies to our everyday lives as believers. The answer lies in our relationship with Him. When we surrender to Jesus as Lord and Savior, we invite His authority to govern our lives. It implies submission, obedience, and complete trust in His Lordship.
Jesus not only wields authority, but he exercises it lovingly and wisely. He guides, protects, directs and strengthens us through His Holy Spirit. As we submit to His authority, we experience His peace, joy, and fullness. In John 10:10 , Jesus declares, “The thief comes only to steal, to kill, and to destroy; I came that they might have life, and have it more abundantly.” This is the promise of life in fullness when we recognize and live under the authority of Jesus.
The Great Commission and the Authority of Jesus
The statement uttered by Jesus in Matthew 28:18 turns out to be at the heart of the Great Commission, representing a pivotal moment for his disciples. In this biblical passage, He sends them to spread the gospel to all nations, instructing them to baptize people in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, in addition to teaching them to obey all the commandments that He himself established (Matthew 28:19-20). The authority that Jesus grants supports, therefore, the mission of these disciples and assures them of the power and capacity to fulfill such a noble task.
It is important to emphasize that this authority is transmitted to all those who believe in Jesus and become His disciples. In the book of Luke 10:19 , we find Jesus saying, “Behold, I give you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing will hurt you.” It is clear, therefore, that this authority is not restricted to personal purposes, but is aimed at advancing the Kingdom of God and proclaiming the gospel.
As we deeply understand the meaning of these verses, we realize that Jesus gives His followers a spiritual authority that surpasses earthly limits. This authority involves not only the ability to withstand the enemy’s attacks, symbolized by the mention of serpents and scorpions, but also encompasses the full power of the evil one. This means that, although forces contrary to the Kingdom of God may oppose the proclamation of the gospel, the authority given by Jesus enables His disciples to face these obstacles with boldness and confidence.
In this way, we understand that the authority granted by Jesus to His disciples is a divine gift, allowing them to perform miracles, spread the gospel and expand the Kingdom of God on Earth. It’s a huge responsibility, but also a wonderful opportunity to make a difference in the world, impacting lives and leading people to salvation. Therefore, when we become disciples of Jesus, we receive that same authority, and it is our duty to use it with wisdom and love, being instruments of the divine plan for the redemption of humanity.
In summary, the authority conferred by Jesus on His disciples, as expressed in Matthew 28:18, is a prerogative that goes beyond earthly spheres, assuring them power and ability to fulfill the Great Commission. As we understand the extent of this authority, we realize that it extends to all believers in Jesus, enabling them to face the challenges that come their way with courage and confidence. Let us therefore understand the value of this spiritual authority and use it for the glory of God and the benefit of mankind, spreading the gospel and extending the Kingdom of God throughout the world.
Security and Trust in Jesus
The powerful statement made by Jesus in Matthew 28:18 transcends the barriers of time and carries with it a message of assurance and confidence for all who choose to follow Him. As we understand that He holds full authority in heaven and on earth, we are filled with an unshakable certainty that nothing escapes His sovereign control. Amidst the vicissitudes and challenges we encounter throughout life, we find support in the certainty that Jesus is at the helm and that his will will prevail, regardless of the circumstances.
As we delve into the depths of Paul’s epistle to the Romans, we find a treasure trove of truths that strengthen us and renew our hope. In Romans 8:38-39, Paul boldly declares, “For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature shall be able to separate us from the love of God , which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” These words full of conviction reach even the deepest layers of our soul, bringing relief and motivation in the face of life’s adversities.
In this context, it is essential to highlight the profound meaning of these words of Paul. He assures us that there is no force capable of moving us away from the unconditional love of God, manifested through Christ Jesus. Not even the inevitable journey through death, not the ups and downs of earthly existence, not even heavenly and earthly powers, not even the uncertainties of the future or the vastness of the universe can break the ties that bind us to God’s eternal love. This certainty propels us to live courageously, knowing that we are grounded in the supreme authority of Jesus.
Though difficulties may beset us and obstacles may loom before us, we can find comfort and confidence in the assurance that God’s love is indissolubly enfolding us. In moments of uncertainty, we can look to the cross of Christ and remember the supreme sacrifice He made for us, demonstrating the Father’s boundless love. This truth strengthens, encourages, and empowers us to persevere in the Lord’s ways, confident that His authority transcends any circumstance or challenge we face.
In summary, the words of Jesus in Matthew 28:18 and the conviction expressed by Paul in Romans 8:38-39 guide us on our journey of faith, reinforcing our security and trust in God. In the sovereign command of Jesus, we find refuge and direction for every aspect of our existence. May we embrace these truths deep in our hearts and live by divine authority, recognizing that nothing, absolutely nothing, can separate us from the unchanging love of God, which is in Christ Jesus, our Lord and Savior.
The Responsibility of Jesus’ Authority
While we have discussed the authority of Jesus and its significance for our spiritual lives, it is also essential to consider the responsibility that goes with that authority. Jesus, as the holder of all authority in heaven and on earth, has the power to rule and make decisions over all things. However, He uses His authority with love, grace, and justice.
Jesus shows us the perfect example of servant leadership throughout His earthly ministry. He didn’t use his authority to oppress or dominate others, but to love, heal, teach, and offer salvation. In Mark 10:45 , Jesus says, “For the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” He came to serve and sacrifice for us, demonstrating the true purpose and responsibility that go with authority.
As followers of Jesus, we too are called to exercise authority with humility and love. In Matthew 20:25-28 , Jesus teaches His disciples about the true meaning of authority: “Then Jesus, calling them to Him, said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles are dominated by them, and that the great ones exercise authority over them. It will not be so among you; but whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant; And whoever wants to be first among you must be your servant; Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Therefore, in understanding Jesus’ authority, we are also challenged to follow His example, using whatever authority we have to serve and bless others rather than seeking personal advantage or domination.
Security in the Authority of Jesus
Jesus’ statement in Matthew 28:18 also carries with it great assurance for believers. Knowing that Jesus has all authority in heaven and on earth means that we don’t have to fear any earthly or spiritual power that might rise up against us. In 2 Timothy 1:7 we read, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, of love, and of sound mind.”
When we face challenges, difficulties, or opposition, we can lean on Jesus’ authority and trust His intervention in our lives. He is bigger than any problem we may face. In 1 John 4:4, it is written: “Little children, you are of God and have overcome them, because he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world”.
Assurance in Jesus’ authority also gives us confidence in our identity as children of God. In Romans 8:17 we read: “Now if we are children, then we are heirs, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ; if indeed we share in his sufferings, that we may also share in his glory.” As children of God, we are invested with the authority and inheritance that come through Jesus.
Conclusion
Studying Matthew 28:18 reveals Jesus’ supreme authority in heaven and on earth. His authority gives us confidence that He is in control of all things and empowers us to live a life of service, love and obedience. By understanding the responsibility and security that come with Jesus’ authority, we are challenged to follow His example and trust His leadership in all areas of our lives.
May we recognize the grandeur of Jesus’ authority and respond to it with humility, submission, and faith. As we do, we will experience the transforming power of his authority in our lives and witness his Kingdom being established here on earth.
