What does "all authority in heaven and on earth" mean for believers today? The Risen King’s Declaration Matthew 28:18 — “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” • Spoken by Jesus after His bodily resurrection • A literal transfer of universal dominion from the Father to the Son (cf. Daniel 7:13-14) • Covers every realm—visible and invisible, physical and spiritual The Scope of His Authority • Heaven: angelic hosts, cosmic powers, eternal realities (Ephesians 1:20-22) • Earth: nations, governments, natural laws, human hearts (Psalm 2:7-9) • Time: past, present, future (Revelation 1:8) • Death and the grave: conquered by His resurrection (Revelation 1:18) What This Means for Our Identity • We belong to the supreme Lord, not to ourselves (1 Corinthians 6:19-20) • We are citizens of a kingdom that cannot be shaken (Hebrews 12:28) • Our worth is anchored in the One whose rule cannot be challenged (Colossians 1:15-18) What This Means for Our Mission • The Great Commission flows directly from His authority (Matthew 28:19-20) • Evangelism is carried out under His sovereign backing, ensuring ultimate success (Acts 1:8) • Discipleship involves teaching obedience to every command He gives (John 14:15) What This Means for Our Confidence • Spiritual warfare: every demonic power is subject to Christ (Colossians 2:15) • Prayer: we approach the Father “in Jesus’ name,” the name above every name (Philippians 2:9-11) • Suffering: nothing reaches us apart from His permissive will (Romans 8:28-39) What This Means for Our Obedience • No compartment of life lies outside His jurisdiction—work, family, finances, recreation (Colossians 3:17) • Immediate, wholehearted submission is the only fitting response (Luke 6:46) • Holiness is pursued with the assurance of His empowering presence (2 Peter 1:3) Daily Practices to Live Under His Authority • Begin each day acknowledging His lordship aloud, surrendering plans and desires • Read Scripture expecting the King to speak directives for today • Engage culture without fear, remembering He governs authorities and outcomes • Share the gospel confidently, trusting the One who sends also equips • Stand firm against temptation, declaring Christ’s victory over every rival claim Looking Ahead Revelation 11:15 — “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He will reign forever and ever.” • The present reign guarantees a future consummation • Every knee will bow; believers bow willingly now, joyfully anticipating that day |
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