September 19
Christ's Dominion Over All Flesh
The Christian's Daily Treasury"As 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.
THESE words have an evident reference to the first verse of this chapter, and may be understood in a two-fold sense. First, comparatively; as if our Saviour had said, Give thy Son a glory suitable to the authority and dominion thou hast given him. Secondly, argumentatively; enforcing his former petition, as if he had said, Glorify thy Son because thou hast given him power over all flesh. In this sense, chiefly, we understand the words. Observe
AN IMPORTANT TRUST COMMITTED. Power over all flesh. Concerning this dominion of the Saviour, notice
Its universal extent. It is over all mankind, here designated flesh. All power is given him in heaven, and over lost spirits in hell, as well as over the inhabitants of the earth; but men are particularly alluded to here, as he came to sanctify and save such, and for this appeared in the likeness of human flesh.
Its acknowledged source. "As thou hast given him power." This verse speaks not of Christ's Divine power as God, but his delegated power as Mediator; which is to be considered as the reward of his obedience, sufferings, and death.
A GLORIOUS END STATED. "That he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him."
The inestimable blessing to be realized. "Eternal life." This includes all the joys and triumphs of heaven. It is a life of perfect peace, holiness, satisfaction, and delight, and is to be enjoyed forever.
The manner in which it is obtained. Christ is said to give it, because his blood gives us a title to it, his Spirit confers a meetness for it, and his Gospel gives us a description of it. He gives the beginning of it in the work of grace, and the consummation of it in the possession of glory.
The individuals who shall enjoy it. "As many as thou hast given him." Believers were given in the mutual covenant between the Sacred Three; given for the most important end, to be redeemed from evil; given to reward him for his work, and to celebrate his praise.