Scripture: John 3:35 (ESV) – “The Father loves the Son and has given all things into his hand.”
This verse highlights the deep relationship between God the Father and Jesus the Son. It affirms two foundational truths: the Father’s perfect love for the Son and the absolute authority given to Christ. Because Jesus is the beloved Son, He has been entrusted with “all things,” meaning complete dominion over creation, salvation, and judgment.
The document emphasizes that this divine authority is a direct result of the Father’s love. God has not merely given Jesus a mission—He has given Him everything. Jesus is not just a messenger; He is the ruler of all. This echoes other passages, such as Matthew 28:18, where Jesus declares, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” It also reminds us that Christ alone holds the power to give eternal life and execute judgment.
J.C. Ryle, in his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels, reflects on the weight of this truth. He points out that if all things are in Christ’s hands, then salvation itself is under His control. To reject Jesus is to reject the One whom God has appointed to rule over all. Ryle urges believers to find comfort in this verse—knowing that our Savior is not weak or limited, but fully sovereign. Everything that happens in our lives is under the hand of the One whom the Father loves and trusts completely.
For us, this verse is both a call to faith and a source of assurance. It reminds us that Jesus is not just a good teacher or prophet—He is the one to whom all authority has been given. Trusting in Him is not an option; it is the only way to eternal life. At the same time, knowing that all things are in His hands gives us peace, for our lives are under the care of the One whom the Father has exalted above all.
Reflection Questions:
- What does it mean for Jesus to have “all things” in His hands? How does this shape your understanding of His authority?
- How does knowing that the Father loves the Son give you confidence in Christ’s ability to rule and save?
- Are there areas in your life where you struggle to trust in Jesus’ authority? How can you surrender those to Him?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, we rejoice that the Father loves You and has placed all things in Your hands. Help us to trust fully in Your authority and to recognize that our salvation and lives are securely held by You. Give us confidence to submit to You in every area of our lives, knowing that You rule with wisdom, love, and power. May we live in obedience and faith, resting in the knowledge that You are sovereign over all. In Your name, Amen.
This devotional is based on Pastor Chris Cousine’s sermon material and supplemented with insights from J.C. Ryle’s Expository Thoughts on the Gospels on John 3:35.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 