“All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” (Matthew 28:18)

“All” is a tiny word, but its all-encompassing meaning indicates its great importance, especially when in reference to Jesus.

Consider its use in relation to creation. “All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made” (John 1:3). “For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth . . . all things were created by him, and for him: and he is before all things, and by him all things consist” (Colossians 1:16–17). There was never a time when all things were not in Christ’s mighty hands.

As the Father’s heir, Jesus received all these things from the Father. “[The Father] hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things” (Hebrews 1:2). “The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand” (John 3:35). The Father has also made Jesus the judge of all. “For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son” (John 5:22). Jesus Himself states that “all power is given unto me” (our text).

With this power, Jesus redeems humanity and makes a new creation! “Thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him” (John 17:2). “Behold, I make all things new” (Revelation 21:5).

Jesus desires “all men to be saved” (1 Timothy 2:4), so He directs us to “teach all nations” (Matthew 28:19).

We need not look anywhere else for help. Jesus has all things in His hand and has all authority! What a great comfort to know that, “all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28). MJS