Matthew 28:18

Jesus drew near and said to them. He speaks to the whole group (of more than five hundred 1 Corinthians 15:6). He had given the twelve a limited mission a few years before (Matthew 10:1-15) and later sent seventy-two more. (Luke 10:1). But these had been sent only to the Jews, and to announce a Kingdom still in the future. The "old era" ended at the Cross, and the "last days" have begun (compare Peter's use of Joel's prophecy - Acts 2:16-21). I have been given all authority. Given - by God the Father (compare Philippians 2:6-11) in fulfillment of the Eternal Covenant, in the Unity of the Holy Spirit. Alford (Greek Testament) says: "Now first is this covenant, in its fulness, proclaimed upon earth. The Resurrection was its last seal - the Ascension was the taking possession of the Inheritance. But the Inheritance is already won; and their Heir is only remaining on earth for a temporary purpose - the assuring His joint-heirs of the verity of his possession." On the basis of his authority as King, High Priest, and Judge - he authorizes them to "Go, to all peoples everywhere!" [A time is coming when he will give the Kingdom back to the Father (1 Corinthians 15:24; 1 Corinthians 15:28).