New Testament
Matthew 28:18
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Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, "All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me."
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And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
What Matthew 28:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus asserts His authority over all creation, both in heaven and on earth. This declaration comes after His resurrection, emphasizing that He has been given all power by God. It signifies His divine sovereignty and the fulfillment of His mission. By stating that all power is given to Him, Jesus reassures His followers of His control over every situation they may face. This power is not just for His own benefit but is also a foundation for the Great Commission that follows, where He instructs His disciples to spread the gospel. Understanding that Jesus holds all authority can provide comfort and confidence to believers, knowing they are following a leader who is supreme over all things. This verse sets the stage for the mission of the church, highlighting the importance of Jesus' authority in the lives of His followers and the tasks they are called to undertake.
How to apply Matthew 28:18 to your life
Recognizing Jesus' authority can empower us in our daily lives. We can approach challenges with confidence, knowing that He is in control. This understanding encourages us to share our faith boldly, trusting in His power to guide and support us in our mission.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Great Commission (Matthew 28:16–20)
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Jesus
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 28:18 mean?
Matthew 28:18 means that Jesus claims all authority in heaven and on earth after His resurrection. This statement emphasizes His divine power and sovereignty, reassuring His followers that He is in control of all situations.
What is the significance of Jesus' authority in Matthew 28:18?
The significance of Jesus' authority in Matthew 28:18 is that it establishes His role as the supreme leader and empowers His followers to carry out the Great Commission. It highlights that His power is essential for the mission of spreading the gospel.
How does Matthew 28:18 relate to the Great Commission?
Matthew 28:18 relates to the Great Commission by providing the foundation of Jesus' authority, which empowers His disciples to spread the gospel. His declaration of all power assures them that they are supported in their mission.
What does 'all power' mean in Matthew 28:18?
'All power' in Matthew 28:18 refers to the complete authority and control Jesus has over everything in heaven and on earth. It signifies His divine sovereignty and the ability to guide and support His followers in their endeavors.
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