Matthew 28:18
And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
Matthew 28:18 · King James Version
Meaning
When Jesus spoke the words "All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth," He was declaring His authority and supremacy over all creation. This verse emphasizes the divinity of Jesus Christ and His role as the Son of God. In this statement, Jesus is asserting that He possesses ultimate power and sovereignty both in heaven and on earth. This proclamation highlights the fact that Jesus has been given authority by the Father to rule over all things. It signifies his preeminence over all rulers, powers, and authorities in the spiritual realm as well as the physical world. This verse is a reminder to believers of the limitless power and authority of Jesus and serves as a source of comfort and assurance that He is in control of all things. It also serves as a call to worship and submission to the Lordship of Jesus Christ, recognizing His supreme authority over every aspect of our lives.
Theological Overview
When Jesus proclaimed that all power had been given to Him in heaven and on earth, He was asserting His divine authority over all creation. The phrase "all power" in the original Greek text is "á¼Î¾Î¿Ï…σία" (exousia), which not only implies authority but also the ability to act decisively. This declaration by Jesus underscores His sovereignty and supremacy over every realm, both spiritual and physical.
From a theological perspective, this verse affirms the deity of Jesus Christ as the Son of God. By claiming to have all power in heaven and on earth, Jesus is essentially asserting His identity as the second person of the Trinity, co-equal and co-eternal with the Father and the Holy Spirit. This statement also points to the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies regarding the Messiah who would reign as King over all nations.
Furthermore, Jesus' declaration of possessing all power serves as a foundation for the Christian faith, as believers are called to submit to His authority and trust in His sovereignty. This verse reminds us that Jesus is not only our Savior but also our Lord, deserving of our complete allegiance and obedience.
Matthew 28:18 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Jesus came to them and spake unto them, saying, All authority hath been given unto me in heaven and on earth.
World English Bible
Jesus came to them and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth.
Douay-Rheims
And Jesus coming, spoke to them, saying: All power is given to me in heaven and in earth.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And Iesus came, and spake vnto them, saying, All power is giuen vnto me, in heauen, and in earth.