Where in the Bible does it say that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord?

The phrase "every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord" is a profound declaration found in the New Testament, encapsulating the universal recognition of Jesus Christ's lordship. This statement is rooted in two primary scriptural references: Philippians 2:10-11 and Romans 14:11. These passages are not only significant in their theological implications but also in their deep connection to the Old Testament prophecies, particularly from the book of Isaiah.

In Philippians 2:10-11, the Apostle Paul writes:

"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." (NIV)

This passage is part of a larger hymn-like section (Philippians 2:5-11) often referred to as the "Christ Hymn." It is one of the most profound Christological passages in the New Testament, highlighting the humility and exaltation of Jesus Christ. Paul begins by encouraging the believers in Philippi to have the same mindset as Christ, who, though being in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage. Instead, He emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, and humbled Himself by becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross. Because of this profound act of humility and obedience, God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name.

The phrase "every knee should bow" and "every tongue confess" signifies universal acknowledgment and submission to Jesus Christ. This acknowledgment is not limited to believers but extends to all of creation—those in heaven, on earth, and under the earth. The comprehensive nature of this declaration emphasizes that every being, whether angelic, human, or demonic, will ultimately recognize Jesus Christ's lordship.

Paul's declaration in Philippians is deeply rooted in Old Testament prophecy, specifically Isaiah 45:23, where God declares:

"By myself I have sworn, my mouth has uttered in all integrity a word that will not be revoked: Before me every knee will bow; by me every tongue will swear." (NIV)

In Isaiah, this statement is made by Yahweh, the God of Israel, asserting His sovereignty and the inevitability of universal recognition of His lordship. Paul, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, applies this prophecy to Jesus Christ, thereby affirming His divinity and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through Him.

Another significant passage that echoes this theme is found in Romans 14:10-11, where Paul writes:

"You, then, why do you judge your brother or sister? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God's judgment seat. It is written: 'As surely as I live,' says the Lord, 'every knee will bow before me; every tongue will acknowledge God.'" (NIV)

Here, Paul is addressing the issue of judgment among believers, reminding them that ultimate judgment belongs to God. He cites Isaiah 45:23 to emphasize that everyone will stand before God's judgment seat, and every knee will bow and every tongue will confess to God. This reinforces the idea that all humanity is accountable to God and will ultimately recognize His authority.

The theological significance of these passages cannot be overstated. They affirm the lordship of Jesus Christ and His divine authority over all creation. The act of bowing the knee and confessing with the tongue are expressions of worship, submission, and acknowledgment of Jesus as Lord. This acknowledgment is not merely a verbal confession but a recognition of His rightful place as the sovereign ruler of the universe.

From a non-denominational Christian perspective, these passages underscore the centrality of Jesus Christ in God's redemptive plan. They highlight the importance of recognizing and submitting to His lordship in our lives. This recognition is not only an eschatological reality but also a present-day call to live in obedience and worship of Jesus Christ.

The universal acknowledgment of Jesus' lordship also points to the hope and assurance that God's purposes will ultimately be fulfilled. Despite the brokenness and rebellion in the world, there is a future reality where every being will recognize and submit to Jesus Christ. This hope is a source of encouragement for believers to persevere in their faith and witness, knowing that God's kingdom will ultimately be established.

In addition to the scriptural references, Christian literature also reflects on this profound truth. For instance, in C.S. Lewis's "Mere Christianity," he writes about the inevitability of recognizing Jesus' lordship:

"When the author walks on to the stage, the play is over. God is going to invade, all right: but what is the good of saying you are on His side then, when you see the whole natural universe melting away like a dream and something else—something it never entered your head to conceive—comes crashing in; something so beautiful to some of us and so terrible to others that none of us will have any choice left? For this time it will be God without disguise; something so overwhelming that it will strike either irresistible love or irresistible horror into every creature. It will be too late then to choose your side. There is no use saying you choose to lie down when it has become impossible to stand up." (Mere Christianity, Book IV, Chapter 5)

Lewis's reflection captures the essence of the biblical declaration that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess. It underscores the urgency of recognizing and submitting to Jesus' lordship now, rather than waiting until it is too late.

In conclusion, the Bible clearly states that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord in Philippians 2:10-11 and Romans 14:11. These passages, rooted in the prophecy of Isaiah 45:23, affirm the universal recognition of Jesus' lordship and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. As believers, we are called to live in obedience and worship of Jesus Christ, acknowledging His authority in our lives and anticipating the future reality of His kingdom.