that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord,to the glory of God the Father.
Philippians 2:10-11
This scripture reveals Jesus’ true identity and the immense reach of His power. It calls everyone to recognise the unmatched authority found in His name. Moreover, it invites us to respond with reverence, obedience, and sincere faith.
The Source of Jesus’ Authority
Paul wrote these words within a powerful hymn. It traces Christ’s journey from humble service to glorious exaltation. Philippians 2:6–9 explains that Jesus, though fully God, became human. He humbly obeyed God, even to death on a cross. Because of His complete obedience, God highly exalted Him. Consequently, God gave Him the name above every other name. The authority in the name of Jesus truly flows from His finished work on the cross. It also comes from His resurrection victory. Ultimately, God Himself declares Jesus supreme; therefore, all creation must acknowledge that supremacy.
The Scope of Jesus’ Authority
When Scripture states that every knee will bow ‘in heaven and on earth and under the earth,’ it establishes the total reach of Christ’s authority. In heaven, for example, angels and heavenly beings already honour and serve Him. Revelation 5:11–12 shows countless angels proclaiming His worth and power. On earth, believers willingly submit to His lordship. Conversely, even those who reject Him now will one day acknowledge His authority. Furthermore, ‘under the earth’ refers to the realm of the dead and the demonic world. Indeed, even Satan and his forces remain subject to Christ’s power. Colossians 2:15 declares that Jesus disarmed the powers and authorities. He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them through the cross.
Applying Jesus’ Authority
Authority in the name of Jesus flows directly from His divine identity and His profound victory. Acts 4:12 states, ‘There is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.’ Consequently, salvation, deliverance, and forgiveness all come through His name. This truly represents His person, His authority, and His redemptive work. When believers pray in Jesus’ name, they appeal to His authority. They align with His will, trusting in His power, as Jesus said in John 14:13.
The early church understood this authority quite clearly. For example, Peter healed a lame man ‘in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth’ (Acts 3:6). Paul commanded an evil spirit to leave a girl ‘in the name of Jesus Christ’ (Acts 16:18). These powerful moments reveal that the spiritual realm truly recognises and submits to the authority embedded in Jesus’ name. If Jesus holds ultimate authority, then fear certainly loses its grip. No earthly power outranks Him. Moreover, no spiritual force threatens His perfect rule. Matthew 28:18 confirms this: Jesus declares, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.’ Thus, when believers submit to Christ’s lordship, they stand under His protection, power, and purpose. They live from victory, rather than simply striving towards it.
Living It Out
Philippians 2:10 reveals a Saviour reigning over all, inviting your surrender. His name holds unmatched authority, having conquered sin and death. Stop embracing fear or dark influences; instead, stand in the authority of Jesus’ name. That name breaks chains and releases freedom over every situation. Trust His power, honour His lordship, and boldly use His name in faith today.