The Great Commission

But the eleven disciples went into Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had sent them. When they saw him, they bowed down to him; but some doubted. 

Jesus came to them and spoke to them, saying, 

“All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth. Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I commanded you. Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.

Matthew 28:16-20 WEBUS

Reflection

This passage is often referred to as "The Great Commission". It captures one of Jesus' final instructions to His disciples after His resurrection. These verses mark a pivotal moment in the Christian faith where Jesus not only reassures His disciples of His divine authority but also commissions them with a monumental task—to spread the gospel to all nations and baptize believers.

Key Points

The Disciples' Faith and Doubt (verse 17): Upon seeing Jesus, the disciples' response was mixed. While many worshiped Him, it is notable that some still doubted. This is a significant detail because it shows that even in the presence of the risen Christ, faith was a journey, not an immediate transformation for all. Doubt was present among the early believers, much like it can be for us today.

Jesus' Authority (verse 18): Jesus begins by affirming that all authority in heaven and earth has been given to Him. This declaration of power sets the foundation for the disciples’ mission. Jesus' authority is not limited but extends universally, covering both spiritual and earthly realms.

The Great Commission (verses 19-20): Jesus commands the disciples to go out into the world, make disciples of all nations, baptize them, and teach them His commandments. This mandate establishes the universal scope of the gospel—it’s not just for a select group but for every nation. The Trinitarian formula used in baptism—"in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit"—emphasizes the unity and co-equality of the Godhead, foundational in Christian doctrine.

Promise of His Presence (verse 20): Jesus closes with a promise that He will be with them "always, even to the end of the age". This is both a comforting assurance and a source of strength for the disciples (and for us today). It’s a reminder that the mission of spreading the gospel is not carried out alone. Jesus' presence and guidance are constant, a source of courage in the face of challenges.

Relevance for Today

The Great Commission is still the heartbeat of the Christian mission. It’s a call not just for the disciples of Jesus’ time but for all believers. It emphasizes the importance of sharing the gospel across cultural and national boundaries, teaching others the ways of Jesus, and living out His commandments in daily life.

Even in modern times, we encounter moments of doubt, like the disciples did. But Jesus’ reassurance of His authority and His promise to be with us always provides a steady foundation upon which our faith can grow. This passage encourages us to trust in Christ's power and presence as we engage with the world around us, whether through acts of kindness, teaching, or simply living out our faith.

Reflection Questions

How can you participate in the Great Commission in your own community?

What doubts do you still wrestle with, and how can Jesus’ promise of His presence strengthen you in those moments?

This passage serves as a reminder that, though we may face doubt or challenges, we are empowered by Jesus' authority and comforted by His eternal presence.