After Jesus rose from the dead, He gathered His disciples and gave them a final, important mission. This event, recorded in Matthew 28:19-20, is known as The Great Commission. In these verses, Jesus instructed His disciples to go out into the world, spreading His teachings and making disciples of all nations. This was not just a command for His immediate followers, but a mission for all Christians to share the message of salvation and hope.
1. The Call to Go and Make Disciples (Matthew 28:19)
Jesus begins the Great Commission with the words, “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations.” This instruction signifies the expansion of God’s kingdom beyond the boundaries of Israel, reaching people from every nation, culture, and background. The mission was no longer limited to a specific group, but was a global call to bring the message of Jesus to the entire world.
The term “disciple” means a follower or learner. Jesus was asking His followers not just to spread the good news but to nurture and teach people to follow His ways, creating a community of believers who live according to His teachings.
Lesson: The mission of the Church is to spread the gospel to all people, regardless of race, nationality, or background. The call to make disciples is not limited to a few, but is for every Christian, showing the inclusive and global nature of the message of Jesus.
2. Baptizing in the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19)
Jesus continues by instructing His disciples to baptize new believers “in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Baptism is a sign of commitment and entry into the family of God. It represents a person’s acceptance of the gospel and their decision to follow Jesus as their Lord and Savior.
Baptism in the name of the Trinity highlights the unity and authority of God the Father, God the Son (Jesus), and God the Holy Spirit. This act signifies the new life and identity of believers, as they are washed of their old life and begin a new journey in Christ.
Lesson: Baptism is a powerful symbol of the transformation that happens when someone accepts Jesus. It shows the commitment to live a new life under the authority of the Triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
3. Teaching to Obey All Jesus’ Commands (Matthew 28:20)
After baptism, the mission does not end. Jesus told His disciples to “teach them to obey all that I have commanded you.” This emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and spiritual growth. Becoming a disciple is not just about a one-time decision; it is a lifelong process of learning and applying the teachings of Jesus.
Jesus had taught many things during His ministry—about love, forgiveness, righteousness, humility, and service. He wanted His followers to pass these teachings on to others, helping them grow in their faith and live according to God’s will.
Lesson: Discipleship is about teaching others to live according to Jesus’ commands. It involves nurturing new believers and guiding them to grow in their faith and obedience to Christ’s teachings.
4. The Promise of Jesus’ Presence (Matthew 28:20)
Jesus ends the Great Commission with a powerful promise: “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” This assurance gave His disciples the confidence and courage they needed to carry out their mission. Jesus promised that He would be with them through the Holy Spirit, guiding and empowering them as they spread the gospel.
This promise also applies to all believers today. No matter how difficult or challenging the mission might seem, Jesus assures us that we are never alone. His presence is constant, and His power will enable us to fulfill the task He has given.
Lesson: Jesus promises to be with His followers always, providing strength and guidance as they carry out His mission. His presence is a source of comfort and empowerment for all Christians who seek to share the gospel.
5. The Global Mission of the Church
The Great Commission marks the beginning of the Church’s global mission. It set the foundation for the spread of Christianity throughout the world, as the disciples went out, preaching the good news and making disciples in different nations. This mission continues today, as Christians around the world work to share the message of Jesus with others.
The Great Commission reminds us that the gospel is for everyone, and that the task of making disciples is an ongoing mission for all believers. It is a call to action, a reminder that we are part of a larger purpose to bring the love and truth of Jesus to the world.
Lesson: The Church’s mission is global, and every believer has a role in spreading the message of Jesus. The Great Commission challenges us to step out in faith, sharing the gospel and helping others grow in their relationship with Christ.
Key Lessons from the Great Commission:
- The gospel is for all nations, and Christians are called to make disciples of people from every background.
- Baptism is a sign of commitment to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, marking the beginning of a new life in Christ.
- Discipleship is a lifelong journey, requiring continuous teaching, learning, and growth in obedience to Jesus’ commands.
- Jesus promises His presence, giving believers the confidence and strength to carry out His mission.
- The global mission of the Church is to spread the message of Jesus to the ends of the earth, making disciples and helping others grow in their faith.
The Significance of the Great Commission
The Great Commission is the final instruction Jesus gave before ascending into heaven, and it defines the purpose and mission of the Church. It emphasizes that the gospel is not just for a select group of people but is to be shared with all nations, showing the inclusive nature of God’s kingdom.
Through the Great Commission, Jesus entrusts His followers with the responsibility of continuing His work on earth—making disciples, teaching His commands, and baptizing in the name of the Trinity. It is both a privilege and a responsibility for Christians to carry out this mission, knowing that Jesus is always with them.
The Great Commission continues to inspire and guide Christians in their efforts to spread the message of salvation, demonstrating the power of God’s love and grace to transform lives.
