The Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:18-20, stands as one of the most significant directives given by Jesus Christ to His followers. This passage not only encapsulates the mission of the church but also serves as a definitive charge that resonates through the corridors of history, calling each believer into active participation in God's redemptive plan.
In Matthew 28:18-20, we read, “And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore 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 that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.’” This passage begins with an affirmation of Christ’s supreme authority. He is not merely a teacher or prophet; He is the sovereign Lord of all creation, who possesses all authority in heaven and on earth.
The declaration of authority sets the stage for the mission that follows. Jesus, as the King, commissions His disciples with the weight of divine sovereignty backing them. Such authority is crucial, for the mission to disciple the nations is not merely a suggestion but a command from the reigning Lord. This profound truth should inspire confidence in the hearts of believers as they engage in the work of evangelism and discipleship.
The directive can be broken down into three primary components: going, baptizing, and teaching. Each element is essential to the holistic understanding of what it means to fulfill the Great Commission.
The first command is to “go.” This is not an invitation to passively await the lost but an active charge to pursue them. It is imperative to understand that the call to go is universal. All believers are called to bear witness to the gospel, irrespective of geographical boundaries or cultural differences. As we engage in our daily lives, we must maintain a posture of readiness to share the hope of Christ.
Next, Jesus commands His followers to “baptize” new disciples. Baptism serves as an outward sign of an inward transformation, symbolizing the believer’s identification with the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ (Romans 6:3-4). It is an essential step in the discipleship process, marking entry into the community of faith and publicly affirming one’s commitment to follow Christ.
The final component is to “teach” the new disciples. This is a call to instruct and nurture believers in the faith. Teaching encompasses not only the knowledge of Scripture but also the application of God's Word to everyday life. The goal is to help disciples grow in their understanding of God’s commands and live in obedience to them. This emphasizes the importance of sound doctrine and Biblical literacy within the church.
Importantly, Jesus's command to make disciples is not limited to a specific demographic. He commands His followers to go “make disciples of all nations.” This highlights the inclusivity of the gospel message. The church’s mission transcends cultural, ethnic, and social barriers, as the gospel is for everyone. It reflects the heart of God, who desires all people to come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4).
As believers embark on this mission, Jesus assures them of His presence: “And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” This promise is profound. It not only assures us of His guidance and support but also signifies that He empowers us for the work ahead. The presence of Christ is the source of strength and encouragement as we engage in the often challenging task of making disciples.
The Great Commission is timeless and continues to be relevant for the church today. It calls us not only to evangelize but also to nurture believers in their faith. This requires a commitment to prayer, discipleship, and community engagement. As we reflect on this sacred charge, may we continually seek to align our lives with this mission, recognizing that it is not just a mandate for the apostles but an enduring calling for all who bear the name of Christ. In doing so, we participate in the unfolding story of God's redemptive work in the world, empowered by the Spirit and motivated by love for our neighbors.
