Jesus Christ gave us a powerful directive – the Great Commission. This mandate, found in Matthew 28:16-20, serves as the cornerstone for evangelism and mission work, calling all followers of Christ to action.
“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.”
These words echo through the ages, challenging us to step beyond our comfort zones and into a life of purpose-driven faith. But what does being “drafted” into this divine mission mean?
To be commissioned is to be chosen and authorized to perform a specific task, duty, or role. In the context of our faith, it means being sent out to perform ministry work. This calling isn’t a mere suggestion or a polite request – it’s a command. This active mission demands our full attention and dedication.
The Great Commission encompasses three key elements:
- Authorization: We are given permission to perform specific tasks and roles in spreading the Gospel.
- Responsibility: We are entrusted with specific duties in making disciples.
- Purpose and Direction: We are given a clear mission to accomplish.
As modern-day disciples, we are called to go into the world and preach the good news. This ongoing mission requires courage, commitment, faith, and a toughness of spirit. It demands sacrifice and service, pushing us to step out of our comfort zones and into the unknown.
But what does it mean to “make disciples”? It’s about more than just sharing information—it’s about teaching others to obey all that Jesus commanded. We are called to love God, love one another as Christ loves us, and forgive. These teachings aren’t just words to be memorized but truths to be lived out daily.
However, we can’t teach what we don’t know, put the Word into practice if we’re unfamiliar, and share the Gospel with the lost if we are uncertain. That’s why it’s vital to be lifelong learners of Scripture, committing ourselves to regular Bible study and spiritual growth.
The Apostle Paul serves as a powerful example of this commitment. He journeyed throughout nations, spreading the teachings of Christianity and providing testimony about Christ. Like Paul, we are called to be witnesses—not just through our words but through our actions and character.
Our lives should be a living testimony to the transformative power of Jesus Christ. One wise believer once said, “You can’t stand up here and say one thing and do another. You never know who’s watching you.” This sobering reminder emphasizes the importance of integrity in our walk with Christ.
The task before us may seem daunting, but we are not left to our own devices. Jesus promised in Matthew 28:20, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” We have been given the Holy Spirit, who empowers us with courage, boldness, confidence, insight, ability, and authority.
This power from the Holy Spirit isn’t just a nice addition to our faith—it’s essential. We can’t do God’s work without it. As Jesus told his disciples in Acts 1, they were to wait in Jerusalem until they were “clothed with power from on high.” Sometimes, waiting on God can feel like suffering, but it’s a crucial part of our spiritual journey.
It’s important to remember that the Holy Spirit doesn’t come where He’s not wanted. We must ask for His presence and power in faith, believing that we have received them. When we do, we’ll find ourselves equipped to be effective witnesses, able to explain both the what and the how of the Gospel.
The urgency of our mission cannot be overstated. In Matthew 24:14, Jesus speaks about the end times, saying, “And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” This verse highlights the critical nature of spreading the good news of salvation to everyone.
As we seek to be faithful followers of Jesus and make disciples, we must remember that everything we do for Christ is done by His authority, not our own, and through His ongoing presence in our lives. As the Lord promised Moses in Exodus 33:14, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”
We have the incredible privilege of joining Christ in His work of spreading His name and making disciples all over the world. We go out as Jesus sends us, in the authority of His Father and in the company of His Spirit. We have all we need to obey Him wherever He leads.
In light of this calling, we have three options before us:
- Go to the unreached and underserved.
- Support those who go.
- Encourage others to go.
Whichever path we choose, we must remember that this mission is, at its core, about love. Christ went to the cross because He loved us so much. We should embrace this call with the same selfless love, ready to tell others that God cares for them, no matter what they’re going through.
As we consider our role in fulfilling the Great Commission, let’s ask ourselves: Are we preaching to all nations? Are we spreading the Word to our friends, family, and loved ones about salvation and eternal life? Are we telling the unending story of Christ and His love?
The task before us is great, but so is the power and love of the One who calls us. Let us surrender ourselves to Christ, stepping out in faith to do His finished works. In this mission, we find our purpose, joy, and ultimate fulfillment as followers of Jesus Christ.
May we go forth boldly, making disciples and sharing the love of Christ with all we encounter. The fields are ripe for harvest, and the Master is calling us to action. Will you answer the call?