The Great Commission contains the final words of Jesus to his disciples before his ascension into heaven. Jesus addresses his disciples after his resurrection and asserts his authority over all things. He declares that all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to him. This statement affirms the divinity of Jesus and his supreme authority over all creation.
As followers of Christ, we are called to recognize and submit to the authority of Jesus. He has the power to direct and guide us in fulfilling his mission. It is through his authority that we are empowered to carry out the work of making disciples and spreading the message of the Gospel.
Jesus issues a clear command to his disciples, and by extension, to us: "Go and make disciples of all nations." This directive signifies the universal scope of the Gospel message. It is not limited to a particular ethnicity, culture, or nation but is intended for all people throughout the world.
Our mission is to reach out to people of every nation, tribe, and tongue, sharing the good news of salvation in Jesus Christ. We are called to engage in intentional evangelism, making disciples by inviting others into a relationship with Jesus and teaching them the ways of the Kingdom of God.
Baptism is an essential part of the discipleship process. Jesus instructs his followers to baptize new disciples in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Baptism symbolizes identification with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection, and it marks the initiation into the community of believers. Through baptism, individuals publicly declare their faith in Jesus and their commitment to follow him.
However, the Great Commission is not limited to baptism alone. Jesus also emphasizes the importance of teaching new disciples to observe all things that he commanded. Discipleship involves not only initial conversion but also ongoing instruction and guidance in the ways of Jesus. We are called to equip and mentor new believers, helping them grow in their faith, knowledge of God's Word, and obedience to Jesus' teachings.
The final words of Jesus in this passage offer great comfort and assurance: "Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Jesus promises his continual presence with us as we carry out his mission. We are not alone in this task. The presence of Jesus empowers us, strengthens us, and provides us with the guidance and support we need.
This promise of his abiding presence assures us that we are not left to accomplish the Great Commission in our own strength. Jesus, the risen Lord, is with us every step of the way. His Spirit dwells within us, equipping us with the necessary gifts and empowering us to be effective witnesses for him.
As we reflect on Matthew 28:18-20, we are called to respond to the Great Commission. We are commissioned to go, make disciples, baptize, and teach. This command is not limited to the apostles but extends to every follower of Jesus throughout history. It is our responsibility and privilege to participate in God's redemptive mission, sharing the love and truth of Jesus with others.
May we embrace the authority of Jesus, faithfully carry out the Great Commission, and trust in his abiding presence as we make disciples of all nations. Let us go forth with confidence, knowing that the one who possesses all authority in heaven and on earth is with us until the end of the age.
See also: vs 11-15
Matthew 28:18-20. Jesus came to them and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth. Go, 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 things that I commanded you.