The Power of All: Embracing God's Limitless Authority

In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, there's a profound truth that can anchor our souls: God has all power, in heaven and on earth. This isn't just a comforting platitude; it's a game-changing reality that can transform how we view our challenges, our doubts, and our very purpose.

On August 3, 1857, famed abolitionist and orator, Fredrick Douglass, stood to give a speech in Canandaigua, New York.  It was the twenty-third anniversary of the “West India Emancipation”, and most of the address was about the history of British efforts toward emancipation, as well as a reminder of the crucial role of the West Indian slaves in their own freedom struggle. The speech is significant because soon after Fredrick Douglass began the speech, he began to prophetically foretell the coming of the Civil War in the United States of America. Frederick Douglass stated, and I quote: "Power concedes nothing without a demand. It never did, and it never will." While Douglass was speaking about societal change, this principle holds a deep spiritual truth as well. In our walk with God, we must be bold enough to claim the promises He has given us. Not because we're worthy in ourselves, but because He has deemed us worthy through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

The story of Jesus calling His disciples to a mountain after His resurrection paints a vivid picture of this truth. These were men who had walked with Jesus, seen His miracles, and even witnessed His death and resurrection. Yet, when they saw Him on that mountain, the Bible tells us they worshipped Him - but they also doubted.

This moment of simultaneous worship and doubt is profoundly human. Many go to church, lift their hands in praise, all while carrying doubts in their hearts? The beautiful thing is, Jesus didn't rebuke them for their doubts. Instead, He commissioned them. He hired them. He looked past their uncertainties and entrusted them with a world-changing mission.

This tells us something crucial about our relationship with God: He can still use us despite our doubts. In fact, our doubts can push us deeper into worship, acknowledging that while we don't have all the answers, we serve a God who does.

In this pivotal moment, Jesus made four profound declarations, each centered around the word "all":

1. "All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth." (Matthew 28:18) This isn't just about ability; it's about authority. When Jesus speaks, heaven and earth move to bring His words to pass. Nothing can stand in the way of His will.

2. "Go ye therefore and teach all nations." (Matthew 28:19) The good news of Jesus is for everyone. No one is excluded from God's love and invitation to salvation.

3. "Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you." (Matthew 28:20) Our walk with God isn't just about initial salvation; it's about ongoing discipleship and obedience.

4. "And, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world." (Matthew 28:20) This promise of God's constant presence is the foundation that makes everything else possible.

   
   

These "alls" paint a picture of a God whose power, reach, and commitment to us know no bounds. It's a reminder that when we face seemingly insurmountable obstacles, we serve a God who specializes in the impossible.

Consider the story of the Georgia Tech football game on Saturday, September 13, 2025, where the kicker made a record-breaking 55-yard field goal. While he had the ability to make the kick, it was the referees who had the authority to declare it good. In the same way, while we may have talents and abilities, it's God's authority that ultimately declares us victorious.

This authority of Jesus is likened to dynamite - explosive and capable of obliterating any obstacle in its path. When we align ourselves with God's will, we tap into this same power. It's the power that can move mountains, open doors that seem forever closed, and bring life to dead situations.

But with this power comes responsibility. Jesus commanded His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations. This isn't just about spreading information; it's about transformation. We're called to teach others how to obey all that Jesus commanded. This requires more than just reading the Bible or relying on Google for answers. It requires being in community, learning from those God has appointed to teach and guide us.

Perhaps the most comforting promise in all of this is Jesus' assurance that He will be with us always, even to the end of the age. As He ascended to heaven, He wasn't abandoning His followers. Instead, He was fulfilling His name Emmanuel - "God with us" - in a new and powerful way through the Holy Spirit.

This promise of God's presence is what sustains us through every storm, every valley, every fiery furnace we may face. It's the reason we can stand firm in faith even when everything around us seems to be falling apart. As the old hymn reminds us, "No, never alone, He promised never to leave me alone."

In light of these truths, how should we respond?

First, we must recognize that the same power that raised Jesus from the dead is at work in us through the Holy Spirit. This means that no situation is beyond God's ability to transform.

Second, we need to be bold in our faith, claiming the promises God has given us. Remember, power concedes nothing without a demand. While we approach God with humility, we can also come with holy boldness, knowing that He delights in fulfilling His word.

Third, we should embrace the process of discipleship, both for ourselves and others. This means being teachable, staying connected to a community of believers, and actively participating in the Great Commission.

Finally, we must hold fast to the promise of God's presence. No matter what we face, we are never alone. God is with us in the storm, in the valley, in our marriages, in our parenting struggles - in every aspect of our lives.

As we go forward, let's carry these truths with us. Let's live with the confidence that comes from serving a God of all power, all nations, all teachings, and all-encompassing presence. And let's remember that even in our moments of doubt, we can still worship, knowing that our God is big enough to handle our questions and loving enough to use us despite our imperfections.

In a world that often feels overwhelming, these truths aren't just comforting - they're revolutionary. They have the power to transform not just our individual lives, but our families, our communities, and our world. So let's step out in faith, embracing the all-encompassing power and love of our incredible God.

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