"For Thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, forever..." Praying the Lord's Prayer - Part 6

Rebecca Montrone
Apr 26
11 min read

Starry sky with silhouette of a cross. Text reads "For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever ... AMEN." Peaceful night mood.

Whew! We have made it to the final post in this series on Praying the Lord’s Prayer. In so doing, we arrive at a line many of us have heard, memorized, and perhaps even assumed was part of the original prayer:

“For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.”

And yet… depending on the Bible translation in your hands, reading Matthew 6:13, you may notice something surprising: it is either completely absent or placed in a footnote.

A cartoon character pondering with a thought bubble containing "? HMM" above its head, set against a plain background, conveying curiosity.

Or, your church background may be protestant and in your church you have always said this as part of The Lord’s Prayer, and then, when you visited a service of some kind in a Catholic church, you noticed they didn’t say that part. What’s up with that?

The Obvious Question: Did Jesus actually say this?

This is just the kind of thing a curious Bible student like me wants to know. So here’s the scoop!

Honesty with the Text

In the earliest and most reliable manuscripts of the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 6:13), the Lord’s Prayer ends simply with: “…but deliver us from evil.” And then Jesus moves right along talking again about forgiveness, which came just before it.

Ancient scholar writes with a quill on a scroll in a sunlit, rustic room filled with clay pots and shelves, creating a focused atmosphere.

The longer ending— or, the doxology as it is sometimes called—is found in later manuscripts and became widely used in the church, which is why it appears in translations like the King James Version.

I have to admit that bugs me. Not because of what the line says, because everything the line says is wondrously true, but that some uppity ups in ecclesiastical power at some point along the way seem to have tried to gild the lily, so to speak.

So what happened?

Again, at some point in time in early church days, a scribe or worshipping community added a concluding doxology—a statement of praise—to the prayer. Not to distort it, but to complete it liturgically. I am thinking they wanted to turn this portion of scripture into a formal prayer to be recited or even sung, and putting a powerful, wrap-up ending complete with a resounding “Amen” seemed an ideal way to do it.

A group of people in robes sit attentively around a scroll in an ancient stone courtyard. Warm lighting creates a serene, historical mood.

I kind of get it, because the prayer – as Jesus articulated it Himself, starts with “Our Father,” clearly addressing God in “a” prayer. Abruptly ending with “…and deliver us from evil” almost feels like we forgot something; like an ill-mannered child, when, in the middle of a conversation with his parents asking them for something just walks away without saying, “Thank you, bye, you guys are the best…” or asking to be excused.

There are a few thoughts that come to my mind while mulling all of this over:

Silhouette of a human head with colorful gears inside, emitting bright, glowing lines on a dark blue background, symbolizing thoughts.

1) The scriptural issue I have with adding something that wasn’t included in the earliest manuscripts. The earlier the manuscript, the more reliable, because – as in the case with Matthew’s gospel – we never have the actual document the original author wrote, we have what was copied over and over again down through the centuries by meticulous scribes. Did you know that? Each scribe’s obligation was to copy it exactly as it was in the document they were transcribing from. And we are talking very crude writing materials compared to today, prone to decay and destruction, so the scripture transcription business was fulltime work for many and no small responsibility.

The scriptures are remarkable in their incredible accuracy and consistency over thousands of years, and the integrity of brilliant and disciplined scribes – certainly aided by the power of the Holy Spirit – is what is responsible for why we have the Holy Bible available to us today. Remarkable, when you think about it! Interested knowing more about all of this?

Book cover titled "How We Got the Bible" by Neil R. Lightfoot. Features ornate lettering and a scroll with Hebrew text. Beige background.

Here's a good book - not overwhelming but very enlightening! How We Got the Bible: Factual Answers to Questions about the History of the Bible

2) The danger of turning the prayer Jesus offered as an example to His disciples for its rich content into a few lines to be piously recited by rote and, likely, in many cases, without much melding of the mind and spirit with the tongue. This is what is meant by “vain repetition,” a topic I addressed in the first post of this series and a practice Jesus strongly discouraged. Praying the Lord's Prayer - Part 1

However, even if not actual Scripture here, this line is completely and deeply scriptural in its truths - Even if this exact line was not part of the original wording in Gospel of Matthew, its content is undeniably biblical, and this doxology – if you will – is a fitting close to ANY prayer we offer to God.

Text of 1 Chronicles 29:11 on a warm-toned, patterned background. The verse praises God's greatness, power, and majesty.

In fact, it echoes almost word-for-word a declaration from the Old Testament:

“Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory… Yours is the kingdom, O Lord…” 1 Chronicles 29:11

So, while we may choose not to treat the phrase as part of the original prayer, we can say with full confidence: Every word of it is true.

If you are reciting The Lord’s Prayer and choose to include the doxology, you are not speaking error, and if you choose to stop where the earliest manuscripts stop, you are not omitting truth. Because the reality remains:

All of Scripture testifies—without hesitation—that the kingdom,

the power, and the glory belong to Him.

Before We Dig In: A Short Review - The Genius of the Lord’s Prayer

Hands in prayer with "The Lord's Prayer" text overlay. Includes Matthew 6:9-13 reference. Dark background, serene mood.

Before we dig further into the wonderful and astounding truths of this closing section, let’s take another look at what Jesus gave His disciples, and us. In just a few short phrases, He teaches us to pray:

Upward — “Our Father in heaven…”
Reverently — “Hallowed be Your name…”
Surrendered — “Your kingdom come…”
Dependently — “Give us this day…”
Humbly — “Forgive us…”
Relationally — “…as we forgive…”
Watchfully — “Lead us not into temptation…”
Desperately — “Deliver us from evil…”

Can you think of anything that is missing? I can’t! It is a brilliant and perfect prayer, both in its brevity and in its depth. (Hmm… why am I not surprised! 😊)

DIGGING DEEPER - IT'S TIME!

Shovel digging into dirt with text "Digging Deeper." Rustic colors, with a worn texture. Suggests exploration or investigation.

Let's now take a closer look at each of the five pieces addressed in this fittingly majestic doxology (yes, five, not three - I'll show you why!).

A cartoon boy with spiky blond hair and a striped shirt points at his playful fingers, showing curiosity with a cheerful expression.

1) “For Thine is the KINGDOM…”

Majestic fantasy city with castles and towers atop cliffs, surrounded by clouds and waterfalls. Dreamlike and serene atmosphere.

In Scripture, “the kingdom” refers not merely to a place, but to the sovereign rule and reign of God—His authority exercised over all creation. The Hebrew and Greek words for kingdom (malkuth, basileia) emphasize kingship, dominion, and rightful authority, not just territory. God’s kingdom is eternal, unshakable, and comprehensive—“The Lord has established His throne in the heavens, and His kingdom rules over all” (Psalm 103:19). It is both a present reality—at work in the hearts of those who submit to Him—and a future fulfillment that will be fully revealed when Christ reigns in visible glory (Luke 17:21; Revelation 11:15). To say “Thine is the kingdom” is to acknowledge that all rule belongs to Him, and that every lesser authority is temporary and subordinate to His ultimate reign.

I don't know about you, but knowing that makes me feel incredibly safe and secure when it comes to, well... everything!

The Kingdom Is His… Forever

We studied this in greater depth in Part 3 of this series: "Thy Kingdom Come" - Praying the Lord's Prayer - Part 3

“The Lord has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all.” Psalm 103:19

“His dominion is an everlasting dominion… He does according to His will… none can stay His hand.” Daniel 4:34–35

“The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever.” Revelation 11:15

We Wait for That Day

Today, here on earth and in the heavenlies, there are competing kingdoms with God’s kingdom. The kingdom of darkness has heavy dominion in both.

A dark, misty castle under stormy skies. Text: "The Kingdom of Darkness" and "George F. Staple" in white. Ominous mood.

The Ruler of This World (Satan’s Authority—Limited but Real)

“Now is the judgment of this world; now will the ruler of this world be cast out.” John 12:31

"…the ruler of this world is coming. He has no claim on Me.” John 14:30

“…the ruler of this world is judged.” John 16:11

Spiritual Dominion of Darkness

“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against… the rulers… the authorities… the cosmic powers over this present darkness…” Ephesians 6:12

Blindness and Deception

“The god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers…” 2 Corinthians 4:4

Power of Darkness at Work

“…this is your hour, and the power of darkness.” Luke 22:53

(Jesus says this at His arrest—darkness appearing to “win,” yet only for a moment.)

Children of Darkness vs. Children of Light

“For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord…” Ephesians 5:8

“For you are all children of light… We are not of the night or of the darkness.” 1 Thessalonians 5:5

The Whole World Under Its Influence

“…the whole world lies in the power of the evil one.” 1 John 5:19

Darkness vs. Light

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:5

“People loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil.” John 3:19

Protesters march on a city street, holding a large "NO KINGS" banner. They're carrying colorful flags and signs. Palm trees line the background.

I have to smile wryly when I see the “No Kings” protestors of late, practically gnashing their teeth and spitting foam from their angry mouths regarding current events. You can be sure that when Christ returns and all kingdoms become the kingdom of our LORD and of His Christ, there will be many “No Kings” protesters railing against His Kingship, but they will quickly be put to silence, when:

“…at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is LORD, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:10, 11

2) “… and the POWER”

Blue lightning bolts radiate against a dark background. Bold white text reads "THE POWER OF GOD," creating a dynamic and powerful mood.

In Scripture, “the power” of God speaks of His absolute ability to act, create, sustain, and accomplish His will without limitation. The Hebrew koach and gevurah, and the Greek dynamis, convey strength, might, and active force—power that is not potential, but fully operative and unstoppable. It is His power that brought the universe into existence (Jeremiah 10:12), sustains all things, and raises the dead (Ephesians 1:19–20). Yet this same power is not distant—it is at work in and for those who believe, accomplishing what human strength never could. To say “Thine is the power” is to confess that all true power originates in Him, belongs to Him, and answers to Him, leaving no room for rival authority or independent strength.

“Ah, Lord God! It is You who have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power… nothing is too hard for You.” Jeremiah 32:17

“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” Matthew 28:18

“…the immeasurable greatness of His power toward us who believe…” Ephesians 1:19–21

“Both riches and honor come from You, and You rule over all. In Your hand are power and might, and in Your hand it is to make great and to give strength to all.” I Chronicles 29:12

Text on a light gray background reads, God has spoken once, twice I have heard this: that power belongs to God. Psalm 62:11.

“Once God has spoken; twice have I heard this: that power belongs to God.” Psalm 62:11

“The Lord is the everlasting God… He does not faint or grow weary… He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might He increases strength.” Isaiah 40:28–29

“It is He who made the earth by His power, who established the world by His wisdom…” Jeremiah 10:12

“His invisible attributes… namely, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived… in the things that have been made.” Romans 1:20

“My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9

“…to the only God, our Savior… be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.” Jude 1:25

3) “…and the GLORY”

Silhouette of a person gazing at a colorful, starry sky. Text reads "THE HEAVENS DECLARE THE GLORY OF GOD, PSALM 19:1". Peaceful mood.

In Scripture, “glory” (Hebrew kavod, Greek doxa) carries the idea of weight, worth, and radiant splendor—the full display of who God is. It is His holiness, goodness, power, and beauty made known, sometimes perceived as overwhelming light or fire (Exodus 24:16–17), and sometimes revealed in His character—His mercy, justice, and truth (Exodus 33:18–19). Creation declares it (Psalm 19:1), Christ embodies it (John 1:14), and believers are called to reflect it. Simply put, the glory of God is the beauty and weight of His presence on display, drawing all attention, honor, and worship to Him.

“I am the Lord; that is My name; My glory I give to no other.” Isaiah 42:8

“Not to us, O Lord… but to Your name give glory.” Psalm 115:1

Sunset over calm water with a bird standing in the foreground. Text reads Revelation 5:13 about praise and glory. Warm, serene mood.

“For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.” Habakkuk 2:14

“Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory!” Isaiah 6:3

"Moses said, “Please show me Your glory.” And He said, “I will make all My goodness pass before you…” Exodus 33:18–19

A volcano erupts with bright red lava against a starry sky. Text reads: "Now the appearance of the glory of the Lord was like a devouring fire, on the top of the mountain. Exodus 24:17."

“The glory of the Lord dwelt on Mount Sinai… Now the appearance of the glory of the Lord was like a devouring fire…” Exodus 24:16–17

“Ascribe to the Lord… glory and strength. Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name…” Psalm 29:1–2

“Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you…” Isaiah 60:1–2

Shepherds watch a glowing sky and star at night, surrounded by sheep. Vibrant colors fill the scene. Quote from Luke 2:9 below.

“…and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear.” Luke 2:9

“…beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another…” 2 Corinthians 3:18

“And the city has no need of sun or moon… for the glory of God gives it light, and its lamp is the Lamb.” Revelation 21:23

4) “…FOREVER…”

Lion on left against black background, large text saying "For Thine is the Kingdom and the Power and the Glory Forever," with a serene mood.

In Scripture, “forever” is far more than a poetic way of saying “a long time.” The Hebrew word often translated forever (ʿolam) and the Greek aiōn carry the sense of that which stretches beyond the horizon—without end, without limit, and beyond human measurement. When applied to God, it speaks of His eternal nature—He is not simply long-lasting, but everlasting in both directions, with no beginning and no end (Psalm 90:2). His reign, His Word, His righteousness, and His glory are not subject to time or decay; they endure unchanging and absolute (Daniel 4:34; Hebrews 13:8). So when we say “forever,” we are stepping outside the limits of our own experience and declaring a truth that only God fully inhabits—His kingdom, power, and glory are not only His now, but His without end.

“From everlasting to everlasting, You are God.” Psalm 90:2

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Hebrews 13:8

“…and they will reign forever and ever.” Revelation 22:5

5) “…AMEN.”

Calligraphic text "Amen" in elegant black script with flourish on a white background, conveying a peaceful and reverent mood.

“Amen” is not merely a closing word—it is a declaration of agreement and trust. Rooted in the Hebrew word ʾāman, meaning “to be firm, faithful, or true,” Amen carries the sense of “it is sure,” “it is true,” or “so be it.” Throughout Scripture, it is spoken as a response of wholehearted assent—an aligning of oneself with what has been declared (Deuteronomy 27:15–26). In the New Testament, Jesus Christ Himself uses it with authority—“Truly, truly…” (literally, “Amen, amen”)—to affirm the absolute certainty of His words (John 5:24). And, in the closing vision of all things, even Christ is called “the Amen”—the faithful and true witness (Revelation 3:14). So when we say “Amen,” we are not simply ending a prayer—we are joining our hearts to God’s truth, affirming His will, and declaring with confidence:

Yes, Lord—this is true, this is right, let it be so.

And so we finish this Rebecca's Heart Series - Praying the Lord's Prayer!

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I have come to know and cherish the Lord more deeply in the process of studying for and writing this, enjoying His exquisite presence and care as the Holy Spirit has witnessed to me and taught me along the way. When Jesus' disciples asked Him to teach them to pray, Jesus could have made it very hifalutin and complicated. Instead, He delivered to them a common sense approach that amazingly covers all the bases when it comes to our relationship with God and our intimate communication with Him. How does He do that?

That's easy: He's God!

And to that, I can only say, "Amen!"

The truths we’ve just walked through—the kingdom, the power, the glory, forever, and Amen—are not meant to remain concepts on a page, but declarations that rise from the heart. This beautiful song, Amen, captures that response perfectly, echoing the heavenly chorus described in Revelation 7:12:

“Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God forever and ever! Amen.”

Let these words carry you naturally from praise formed in study into praise expressed in song…

AMEN

Revelation 7:9-17

(VERSE 1)

Behold, Jehovah, seated on the throne

Abba, Father, the Well that overflows

The God who was and is and shall be forevermore

Holy is the Lord

(CHORUS)

Amen, Amen

Blessing and honor and glory and power amen

Amen, Amen

Blessing and honor and glory and power amen

(VERSE 2)

Behold the Way, the Truth, and the Life

Perfect, Savior, The Blood that washed us white

The God who was and is and shall be forevermore

Holy is the Lord

(BRIDGE)

Holiness has a name and it’s Jesus

Victory has a name and it’s Jesus

The Word has a name and it’s Jesus

Redemption has a name and it’s Jesus

A man with curly hair and a beard sits pensively, hugging knees indoors. Soft light filters through sheer curtains, creating a calm mood.

Interested in knowing how to enter into a personal relationship with God through faith in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ? Say a Salvation Prayer and Receive Jesus Christ Today.

Of course, the saying of a prayer is the reflection of a monumental and life-changing heart decision, but this is a good guide.