What does "All that belongs to the Father is Mine" reveal about Jesus' authority? Setting the Verse in Context John 16 records Jesus’ farewell words on the night before the cross. He comforts His disciples with the promise of the Holy Spirit and then says, “All that belongs to the Father is Mine. That is why I said that the Spirit will take from what is Mine and disclose it to you.” (John 16:15) Unpacking the Phrase • “All that belongs to the Father” – unlimited ownership, power, and glory • “is Mine” – full personal possession, not borrowed or delegated • “the Spirit will take from what is Mine” – the Spirit mediates the riches of the Son to believers Five Truths About Jesus’ Authority 1. Shared Essence, Shared Rights • John 10:30: “I and the Father are one.” • Equality of essence means equality of authority. 2. Universal Sovereignty • Matthew 28:18: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” • Nothing lies outside His jurisdiction—heaven, earth, visible, invisible. 3. Life-Giving Power • John 5:26-27: “For as the Father has life in Himself, so also He has granted the Son to have life in Himself. And He has given Him authority to execute judgment.” • Jesus possesses the divine prerogative to give life and render judgment. 4. Heir of All Things • Hebrews 1:2-3: “He appointed [the Son] heir of all things … upholding all things by His powerful word.” • Ownership of creation underscores absolute authority over it. 5. Perfect Revelation through the Spirit • The Spirit does not introduce a new message; He discloses what is already Christ’s (John 16:15). • Jesus’ authority guarantees the Spirit’s message is identical to the Father’s will. Supporting Witnesses • John 17:10: “All I have is Yours, and all You have is Mine.” • Colossians 1:16-17: “In Him all things were created … and in Him all things hold together.” • Psalm 2:7-8 foreshadows the Son’s royal inheritance of the nations. • Philippians 2:10-11: Every knee will bow to Jesus because of this unrivaled authority. Why This Matters for Us Today • Confidence in Scripture: The same Lord who owns everything guarantees the truth we read. • Assurance in Salvation: His authority to save cannot be overturned. • Boldness in Witness: We speak for the One who possesses heaven and earth. • Peace in Obedience: Submitting to His commands means aligning with the rightful Owner of all. |
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