Welcome.
Now, we'll consider, Matthew 28:19-20, “Understanding The Great Commission”.
Open Bible To Matthew 28:19-20
Let's begin, by reading Matthew 28:19-20.
Go ye therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I commanded you: and lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.
Now, let's continue with, “Understanding The Great Commission”.
Matthew 28:19-20, often referred to as “The Great Commission,” is a foundational passage for Christians worldwide. It captures Jesus' final instructions to His disciples before His ascension, setting the mission for His followers. This article aims to delve deeper into these significant verses and explore their implications for Christians today.
The Call to Make Disciples
The passage begins with Jesus' command: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations…” This instruction sets the primary task for His followers—to make disciples. A disciple is a learner or follower, so making disciples involves leading people to follow Jesus, learn from Him, and live their lives in accordance with His teachings.
The phrase “all nations” underscores the universal scope of this mission. The gospel message is for everyone, regardless of their ethnicity, culture, or social status. This command challenges us to share the message of Jesus beyond our immediate community and to people of all nations.
The Practice of Baptism
Jesus continues, “…baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit…” Baptism serves as an outward sign of an inward spiritual transformation. It symbolizes the believer's identification with Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection.
Recognition of the Father, Jehovah God, is natural, since he is our Creator and Life-Giver. However, the Bible also shows that no human can gain salvation without recognizing the role of the Son in God’s purpose. It is also vital to recognize the role of God’s holy spirit because, among other things, God uses his active force to give life, to inspire his message to humans, and to empower them to do his will.
The Importance of Teaching
Jesus adds, “…and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” Making disciples involves not just leading people to faith in Jesus but teaching them to obey His commands. This reminds us that discipleship involves a lifelong process of growing in understanding and living out Jesus' teachings.
The Assurance of Jesus' Presence
Jesus concludes with a comforting assurance: “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” This promise reminds us that Jesus' presence and power are with His followers as they carry out His commission. We are not alone in this mission; He is with us.
Conclusion: Living Out The Great Commission
Matthew 28:19-20 forms the bedrock of the Christian mission. It calls us to make disciples, baptize, and teach, assuring us of Jesus' continual presence. As we reflect on these verses, let's consider how we are living out this Great Commission. Are we sharing the gospel message? Are we helping others grow in their understanding of Jesus? Are we living in the awareness of Jesus' presence with us? Let's strive to fulfill this mission, assured of His presence with us till the end of the age.
