How does John 17:2 connect with Matthew 28:18 about Jesus' authority? The Father’s Gift of Authority John 17:2 – “For You granted Him authority over all humanity, so that He may give eternal life to all those You have given Him.” Matthew 28:18 – “Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.’” Key Observations • Both verses emphasize a divine bestowal: the Father grants Jesus authority. • John highlights the authority “over all humanity,” while Matthew expands the scope to “in heaven and on earth,” showing no realm lies outside Christ’s rule. • The granting is accomplished, not prospective; the authority is already in Jesus’ possession before the cross is even completed (John 17) and openly declared after the resurrection (Matthew 28). The Scope of Jesus’ Authority • Universal: John 17:2 speaks of “all humanity.” Matthew 28:18 adds the heavenly dimension. • Cosmic implications echoed in: – Daniel 7:13-14 – dominion over “all peoples, nations, and languages.” – Ephesians 1:20-22 – all things placed under His feet. – Colossians 1:16-18 – all things created through and for Him. The Purpose Behind the Authority • John 17:2 – to “give eternal life.” His rule brings redemption. • Matthew 28:19-20 (flowing from v. 18) – to “make disciples of all nations.” The life He grants is spread through the Great Commission. • Authority and mission are inseparable: the King both saves and sends. Continuity from Upper Room to Galilee • Upper Room (John 17): Jesus prays on the eve of His Passion, conscious of His granted authority. • Empty tomb and Galilean mountain (Matthew 28): He openly proclaims that same authority, now vindicated by resurrection. • The narrative arc: 1. Authority affirmed privately in prayer. 2. Authority validated by resurrection power (Romans 1:4). 3. Authority commissioned to the Church for global disciple-making. Implications for Believers Today • Confidence: Our evangelism rests on Christ’s universal authority, not human persuasion (Acts 2:36). • Obedience: If all authority is His, every command carries royal weight (Luke 6:46). • Hope: The One who rules all also gives eternal life; His sovereign plan cannot fail (Philippians 2:9-11; 1 Corinthians 15:25). |
    |