2 as You have given Him authority over all flesh, that He should give eternal life to as many as You have given Him.
2 as
The word “as” is just as. Jesus established an analogy between the Son’s glorification and His authority to give eternal life. Verse 2 is the ground for Jesus’ petition in verse 1.
You have given Him
Jesus’ prayer for Himself was according to the Father’s plan in eternity past. He stepped foot on earth to fulfill that plan. Thus, He prayed according to an eternal plan.
authority over all flesh [humanity],
The Father gave Jesus dominion over the earth (Ps 2). He has authority over all humanity as it relates to salvation. “All flesh” is a Hebraism for all people. He has authority or sovereignty over people from every tribe, language, people, and nation—especially as it pertains to salvation. There is no salvation apart from the cross and resurrection.
that [purpose] He should give eternal life
The purpose behind the Father’s gift of authority to the Son was that He could give eternal life to certain people. The Son has authority to give eternal life to those who believe on Him. Jesus made His request based on the Father giving Him that authority in eternity past.
PRINCIPLE:
The sovereignty of Jesus over creation gave Him the right to give eternal life.
APPLICATION:
Since Jesus is sovereign over creation, every person should bow to Him (Php 2:9f). He does not force us to do this but gives us the choice to do it.
Hi Dr Grant,
These online commentaries are very helpful.
Thanks for your faithfulness,
Gary
“You have given Him (Jesus) authority over all flesh”. Jesus, instead of Satan, has the authourity over all flesh, then why is Satan, instead of Jesus, “the prince of this world”?
Sam, thanks for your post. Two things are similar but different until Christ comes back. Jesus is the “Prince of peace,” (Isa 9:6); He will be King Jesus, King of the world in the Millennial Kingdom. Currently, Satan is the “ruler of the world,” (Jn 12:31). The word “world” in Jn 12:31 does not refer to the physical globe, but to a belief system run by Satan and his minions; it is a worldview contrary to God and His Word.