Christian Discipleship, Sharing the Gospel, Making Disciples, Jesus' Authority, Teaching Obedience to Christ, Jesus' Promise of Presence, Global Evangelism, Biblical Mandate, Christian Mission, Trusting Jesus' Guidance, Living Out Faith
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations…” — Jesus, risen and radiant, commissions the Eleven atop a Galilean mountain, as heaven’s dawn breaks over the earth. A moment of eternal gravity rendered in sacred stillness.
The Great Commission:
Embracing Jesus’ Final Command to Transform the World
The passage of Matthew 28:16-20, often referred to as "The Great Commission," occurs after Jesus' resurrection. At this time, the disciples were grappling with the reality of Jesus' victory over death and the implications of His divine authority. In Jewish culture, mountains were often places of divine revelation, making the setting of this passage significant. Jesus' command to "make disciples of all nations" was revolutionary, as it extended the scope of God's covenant beyond Israel to include all people, breaking cultural and ethnic barriers.
In this passage, the eleven disciples meet Jesus on a mountain in Galilee, as He had instructed them. Despite some lingering doubts among the disciples, Jesus declares His authority over heaven and earth. He commissions them to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey His commands. Jesus concludes with a promise of His continual presence, saying, "I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
Matthew 28:18: "Then Jesus came to them and said, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.'" This verse establishes Jesus' divine authority, affirming that His command is not merely a suggestion but a mandate backed by the power of God.
Matthew 28:19-20: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." These verses outline the mission of every believer: to share the gospel, nurture spiritual growth, and trust in Jesus' abiding presence.
The Great Commission is not just a directive for the original disciples but a call for all Christians. It reminds us that our faith is not meant to be private but shared. Jesus' command to make disciples of "all nations" challenges us to step out of our comfort zones and engage with people from diverse backgrounds. His promise to be with us always provides comfort and courage, especially when the task feels daunting. This passage underscores the global and eternal scope of God's kingdom, inviting us to participate in His redemptive work.
Share Your Faith Boldly: Look for opportunities to share the gospel with friends, family, or coworkers. Start with simple conversations about your faith journey.
Disciple Others Intentionally: Invest in the spiritual growth of others by mentoring, leading a Bible study, or simply walking alongside someone in their faith.
Trust in Jesus’ Presence: When you feel inadequate or afraid, remember Jesus’ promise to be with you always. Pray for His guidance and strength as you fulfill His mission.
How can I step out of my comfort zone to share the gospel with someone this week?
Who in my life can I intentionally disciple or encourage in their faith journey?
What fears or doubts do I need to surrender to Jesus as I embrace His call to make disciples?
How can I remind myself daily of Jesus’ promise to be with me always?
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of salvation and the privilege of sharing Your love with others. Help me to embrace the Great Commission with courage and faith. Teach me to trust in Your presence and rely on Your strength as I make disciples and live out Your commands. May my life reflect Your glory and draw others closer to You.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
"Declare His glory among the nations, His marvelous deeds among all peoples." —Psalm 96:3
This week, commit to sharing your faith with at least one person. Whether through a conversation, a kind act, or an invitation to church, take a step toward fulfilling the Great Commission in your daily life.
