The Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:18-20, is Jesus’ command to His disciples to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to obey His commands. It emphasizes the call to evangelism and the spread of the Gospel worldwide.
Scripture
16 Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them.
17 And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted.
18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.
19 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,
20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.
The Great Commission in the Bible
The Great Commission, articulated in Matthew 28:18-20, encapsulates not only a directive for evangelism but also a profound theological understanding of the role of believers in God’s redemptive plan. Jesus begins with a declaration of His authority—”All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (Matthew 28:18, NIV)—which underscores that the mission is anchored in His sovereignty and divine power. This authority empowers the disciples to venture beyond cultural and geographical boundaries to spread the Gospel, embodying the universal nature of the Christian faith. The commandments to “make disciples of all nations” signify an inclusive call, suggesting that the reach of the Gospel extends to every people group, reflecting God’s desire for reconciliation and salvation for all humanity (Acts 10:34-35).
Furthermore, the Great Commission emphasizes the importance of teaching and baptizing, as outlined in verse 19. This establishes a framework for discipleship that includes immersion in the community of faith (baptism) and a commitment to learning and obeying Christ’s teachings. Ultimately, the promise of Christ’s presence—”And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20, NIV)—provides reassurance and affirmation to believers that they are not alone in their mission. This overarching theme of obedience, empowerment, and divine accompaniment reflects the transformative nature of the Gospel, calling believers to actively participate in the fulfillment of God’s kingdom on earth, as seen in parallel commissions found in Mark 16:15 and Luke 24:47. Through this lens, the Great Commission serves as a foundational mandate that shapes the identity and mission of the church throughout history.
The term “Great Commission” itself does not appear in the original Greek text of the New Testament; rather, it is a theological concept that refers to Jesus’ instructions to his disciples to spread the Gospel. The Greek word often associated with this commission is “μαθητεύω” (matheteuo), which means “to make disciples.” This verb is derived from the noun “μαθητής” (mathetes), meaning “disciple” or “learner.” The etymology of “matheteuo” can be traced back to the root “μανθάνω” (manthano), which means “to learn.” Scholars such as William L. Lane and Craig S. Keener have noted that the emphasis on discipleship in the Great Commission highlights the transformative process of learning and following Jesus.
In the context of the Great Commission, “matheteuo” implies not just a passive acquisition of knowledge but an active engagement in the life and teachings of Jesus. This understanding is supported by scholars like Michael J. Wilkins, who emphasizes that making disciples involves teaching, baptizing, and nurturing believers in their faith. The call to “make disciples of all nations” reflects the universal scope of the mission, indicating that the message of Jesus is intended for all people, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries. Thus, the Great Commission serves as a foundational mandate for Christian evangelism and discipleship, rooted in the Greek understanding of learning and following.
The Call to Discipleship
The Great Commission emphasizes the importance of discipleship in the Christian faith. It is not merely about converting individuals but about nurturing them into a deeper relationship with Christ. This involves teaching, mentoring, and guiding new believers to grow in their faith and understanding of God’s word. The call to discipleship signifies a commitment to fostering a community of believers who support one another in their spiritual journeys.
The Universal Scope of the Gospel
Another significant aspect of the Great Commission is its universal scope. It transcends cultural, geographical, and social boundaries, highlighting the inclusive nature of the Christian message. This directive encourages believers to reach out to all nations, affirming that the gospel is meant for everyone, regardless of their background. This broader understanding challenges Christians to embrace diversity and engage in cross-cultural missions, reflecting the heart of God for all humanity.
Empowerment through the Holy Spirit
The Great Commission also underscores the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers to fulfill their mission. It is not solely through human effort that the gospel is spread; rather, it is through the divine assistance of the Holy Spirit that Christians are equipped to witness and serve. This understanding encourages reliance on God’s power and guidance, fostering a sense of confidence and purpose in the mission of spreading the gospel.
How to Embrace Your Mission as a Better Christian
Embracing your mission as a better Christian starts with a heartfelt commitment to understanding and living out the teachings of Jesus. It’s about recognizing that your unique gifts and experiences are part of a divine plan, meant to serve others and glorify God. Begin by immersing yourself in Scripture, allowing the Word to guide your thoughts and actions. Prayer is essential; it’s your lifeline to God, helping you discern His will for your life. Look for opportunities to serve in your community, whether through volunteering, mentoring, or simply offering a listening ear to someone in need. Remember, your mission isn’t just about grand gestures; it’s often found in the small, everyday acts of kindness and love. Surround yourself with a supportive faith community that encourages you to grow and hold you accountable. As you step out in faith, trust that God will equip you with the strength and wisdom you need to fulfill your mission, making a meaningful impact in the lives of those around you.
Bible References to the Great Commission:
Mark 16:14-20: 14 Afterward he appeared to the eleven themselves as they were reclining at table, and he rebuked them for their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they had not believed those who saw him after he had risen.
15 And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.
16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.
17 And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues;
18 they will pick up serpents with their hands; and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover.”
19 So then the Lord Jesus, after he had spoken to them, was taken up into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God.
20 And they went out and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the message by accompanying signs.
Luke 24:44-49: 44 Then he said to them, “These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled.”
45 Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures,
46 and said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead,
47 and that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem.
48 You are witnesses of these things.
49 And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.
John 20:19-23: 19 On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.”
20 Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord.
21 Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.”
22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.
23 If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld.”
Acts 1:6-11: 6 So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?”
7 He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority.
8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
9 And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight.
10 And while they were gazing into heaven as he went, behold, two men stood by them in white robes,
11 and said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”
Rev. François Dupont is a dedicated church minister with a wealth of experience in serving spiritual communities. With a calm and serene demeanor, he has been devoted to sharing the message of love, compassion, and tolerance for over two decades. Through his thoughtful sermons, compassionate counseling, and unwavering support, Rev. Dupont has touched the lives of countless individuals, allowing them to find solace and strength during difficult times. His serene presence and deep understanding of the human condition make him a trusted guide for those seeking spiritual nourishment and guidance.