Matthew 28:28 is about Jesus assuring his disciples of his continued presence and authority even after his physical departure from them.
28 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.
Setting the Scene for Matthew 28:28
The scene in Matthew 28 takes place in the garden near the tomb where Jesus was buried. Mary Magdalene and the other Mary had come to the tomb early in the morning to see the resting place of Jesus. As they arrived, there was a great earthquake, and an angel of the Lord descended from heaven, rolling back the stone that sealed the tomb. The guards who were stationed there were so afraid that they shook and became like dead men.
In the midst of this supernatural event, the angel spoke to the women, telling them not to be afraid and informing them that Jesus had risen from the dead, just as He said He would. The angel instructed them to go quickly and tell the disciples that Jesus had risen and that they would see Him in Galilee. Overwhelmed with fear and joy, the women left the tomb to carry out the angel’s command, running to find the disciples and share the incredible news of Jesus’ resurrection.
The atmosphere in the garden was filled with awe and wonder as the women encountered the angel and received the life-changing message of Jesus’ victory over death. The beauty of the garden, now bathed in the light of the rising sun, provided a stark contrast to the miraculous events unfolding before them. This pivotal moment in history marked the beginning of a new era for humanity, as Jesus conquered sin and death, offering hope and salvation to all who believe.
What is Matthew 28:28 about?
This powerful verse from the Bible, found in Matthew 28:20, reminds us of the unwavering presence of Jesus in our lives. It serves as a comforting reassurance that no matter what challenges we may face or where life may lead us, Jesus is constantly by our side. This promise is a reminder of the boundless love and support we receive from our faith, providing us with strength and courage in times of need.
Have you ever felt alone or uncertain about the future? This verse serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that we are never truly alone in our journey through life. Jesus’ promise to be with us always is a source of comfort and guidance, instilling in us a sense of peace and reassurance. It encourages us to trust in His presence, knowing that He is there to walk alongside us through every step of our journey. So, let this verse be a reminder of the enduring love and companionship that Jesus offers to each and every one of us, leading us through life with grace and unwavering support.
Understanding what Matthew 28:28 really means
In the final verses of the Gospel of Matthew, specifically Matthew 28:18-20, we encounter what is commonly known as the Great Commission. This pivotal moment captures Jesus’ parting words to His disciples, marking a significant transition in their mission on earth. Jesus, having conquered death and risen from the grave, asserts His authority over all realms, declaring, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” This proclamation underscores His divine sovereignty and supreme power, setting the stage for the monumental task He entrusts to His followers.
The command to “go and make disciples of all nations” reverberates through the centuries, transcending cultural, linguistic, and geographical barriers. It is a call to universal evangelism, urging believers to spread the message of salvation to every corner of the earth. The act of baptizing new disciples in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit symbolizes their initiation into the Christian faith and underscores the Trinitarian nature of God—a foundational truth that shapes the identity of believers.
Moreover, Jesus instructs His disciples to teach new followers to obey His commands, emphasizing the importance of ongoing discipleship and adherence to His teachings. This directive highlights the holistic nature of the Christian journey, encompassing not only conversion but also a lifelong commitment to learning, growing, and living out the principles of the Kingdom. The promise of Jesus’ perpetual presence, encapsulated in the assurance, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age,” serves as a source of comfort and strength for believers as they embark on this mission.
The relevance of the Great Commission extends to contemporary believers, urging them to embrace the universal mandate of making disciples in a world marked by diversity and complexity. Each follower of Christ is called to play a role in fulfilling this mission, whether through direct evangelism, supporting missions work, or embodying the Gospel in their daily interactions. The promise of Jesus’ abiding presence serves as a beacon of hope and assurance in tumultuous times, reminding us that we are never alone in our efforts to advance the Kingdom.
Consider the story of Sarah, a young missionary who heeded the call to serve in a challenging and distant land. Despite facing obstacles and uncertainties, Sarah clung to the promise of Jesus’ presence, witnessing firsthand the transformative power of the Gospel in the lives of those she encountered. Her journey exemplifies the practical outworking of the Great Commission and underscores the sustaining grace of Christ in fulfilling His mission on earth.
In conclusion, the Great Commission stands as a timeless directive that beckons believers to active engagement in spreading the message of salvation, nurturing disciples, and embodying the love of Christ in a broken world. As we embrace this calling with faith and obedience, we become vessels of God’s redemptive work, bringing light and hope to a world in need of His saving grace.
How can we go and make disciples today?
We can go and make disciples today by sharing the message of Jesus Christ with others and inviting them to follow Him. This involves showing love, compassion, and kindness to those we encounter, being willing to listen to their struggles and offer support and guidance. We can demonstrate the transformative power of a relationship with Jesus and inspire others to seek that same connection as we live out our faith in our daily lives. We can help others become true disciples of Christ by teaching them about the teachings of Jesus and helping them grow in their understanding of the Bible. This may involve leading Bible studies, mentoring new believers, or simply answering questions and providing guidance along their spiritual journey. Through our actions and words, we can sow the seeds of faith in the hearts of those around us and nurture their growth as disciples of Jesus.
Application
Imagine juggling work deadlines and family commitments, feeling stretched thin. Yet, in this chaos, there’s a deeper purpose calling you. Jesus took on immense pain for you, bearing all our wrongs. Shouldn’t we seize this and live our lives fully dedicated to Him? It’s time to honor that sacrifice by caring for others and spreading His love. So, are you ready to take up your cross and follow Him every single day?
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.