Bible Verse Explanation: Matthew 28:18
Verse: "And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth." (Matthew 28:18, KJV)
Understanding Bible Verse Meaning
The passage from Matthew 28:18 encapsulates profound theological truths concerning the authority of Christ. The phrase “All power is given unto me” emphasizes not only Jesus’ divine authority but also His role as the sovereign ruler over all creation.
Bible Verse Interpretations
According to Matthew Henry's Commentary, this declaration of authority is transformative. Jesus possesses all power, which includes both spiritual governance and the authority over the physical world. This power was awarded to Him following His resurrection, which signifies His victory over sin and death.
Albert Barnes adds that the term "power" in Greek (exousia) implies authority or right. Jesus states that before He commissions the disciples, they must understand the extent of His authority, which legitimizes their mission.
As Adam Clarke suggests, this verse not only establishes the credentials of Jesus but also serves as a foundation for the Great Commission that follows. It reassures the disciples that, armed with Jesus’ authority, they are fully equipped to fulfill their task of evangelism.
Broader Context and Significance
This verse occurs in a pivotal moment after the resurrection, signaling a new era in Christ's ministry. The resurrection was not just a personal victory; it was the inauguration of His reign over heaven and earth. This context is crucial when understanding the implications of the Great Commission that follows.
Applications in Daily Life
Understanding this scripture can provide believers with great encouragement. It reassures them that their efforts in sharing the Gospel are backed by the ultimate authority of Christ. It serves as a reminder that Christians act not out of their own power but through the empowerment of Christ, fostering confidence in the mission entrusted to them.
Commentary Insights
- The Nature of Authority: The verse highlights the significance of Jesus’ authority, establishing Him as not only a teacher but the divine Sovereign.
- Commissioning Authority: This command sets the stage for the commission, reflecting that without an understanding of who Jesus is, the subsequent commands to make disciples wouldn't hold the same weight.
- Universality of Christ’s Power: The declaration that His authority extends to heaven and earth implies His divine control over both realms, reassuring believers of His omnipotence.
Glossary of Terms
- Exousia: The Greek word for power, meaning authority or right.
- Great Commission: The directive given by Jesus in Matthew 28:19-20 to make disciples of all nations.
Related Scriptures
- John 17:2 - "As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him."
- Philippians 2:9-11 - "Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name..."
- Colossians 1:16-17 - "For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth..."
- Romans 14:9 - "For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living."
Conclusion
Matthew 28:18 serves as a foundational statement of Jesus’ authority and power, critical for understanding the mission of the Church. By contextualizing this verse with insights from public domain commentaries, believers can gain a deeper understanding of Scripture, enhancing their Bible verse interpretations and studies. Engaging with this biblical text encourages reflection on Christ's sovereignty and inspires believers to proceed boldly with the Great Commission under His authority.
