By Milton Smith
I rather imagine that the title of this article reminds most of us of the title of a popular old hymn. In a way, this hymn is referring to something said by Jesus, himself, when he gave the Great Commission. In Matthew 28:18-20 we read:
And Jesus came and spoke unto them, saying: “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you, and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world”
Jesus made it clear on this occasion that He was issuing this commission by his own power. The word that is translated “power” here can also be translated by the English word “authority.” In other words, the power of Jesus is seen in and by the authority that he possess.
Paul wrote in his Philippian letter, “Wherefore God has highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name. That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow… and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Now, why would Jesus mention his “power” and his “authority” when giving the Great Commission? Obviously, he was making it clear that this world-wide commission was to be carried out by his authoritative word.
But let me add another thought. When we obey Jesus Christ in baptism, we are promised forgiveness by his authority. In other words, your salvation rests upon the authority and power of Jesus Christ himself. Nothing is more secure than that promise of salvation through the power that is found in the blood of Jesus Christ. Indeed, when we think of such an indescribable gift, all of our hearts should want to join together and sing. “Hail him who save you by his grace, and crown him Lord of all!”