Christ's Commission to Make Disciples*

Scripture: Matthew 28:18-20 (ESV)

All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. ¹⁹Go 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.”

Devotion:

 In the concluding words of the Gospel of Matthew, we encounter the Great Commission, a timeless directive that has propelled the church forward through the ages. Matthew 28:18-20 encapsulates the essence of Jesus’ final instructions to His disciples, a profound call to action that resonates with every believer’s heart and forms a crucial part of our faith journey.

 Jesus begins by declaring, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” This assertion of supreme authority sets the stage for the mission He is about to impart. It reminds us that the one who commands us is the sovereign ruler over all creation. In His authority, we are confident to step out in faith, knowing that our commission is backed by divine power.

The command to “go and make disciples of all nations” is not merely a suggestion but an imperative from the highest authority. It is a call that transcends cultural, geographical, and temporal boundaries. As disciples of Christ, we are to be agents of transformation, inviting others into the life-changing relationship with Jesus.

The act of baptizing them “in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” signifies the transformative journey that believers embark upon. Baptism is not just a ritual, but a powerful symbol of an internal transformation, a public declaration of our allegiance to the triune God. It marks the beginning of a journey of faith, where the old self is buried, and a new creation emerges.

Teaching them to obey everything Jesus has commanded is integral to discipleship. It is not enough to merely convert; we must cultivate. Obedience to Christ’s teachings is the hallmark of a true disciple. It involves a commitment to the Word of God and a life that reflects Jesus' teachings.

The promise of Jesus’ presence, “I am with you always, to the very end of the age,” is not just a reassurance, but a source of our strength and comfort. We are never alone in the face of challenges, opposition, and even persecution. The presence of Christ accompanies us in every endeavor, guiding and empowering us as we fulfill our calling.

 The Great Commission is not a task for a select few; it is the collective calling of the church. It is a mission that requires courage, obedience, and a deep reliance on Christ's authority. As we go forth to make disciples, baptize, and teach, we do so with the assurance that Jesus is with us every step of the way, fostering a sense of unity and shared mission among us.

In this passage, we are reminded of our purpose and our destiny. We are commissioned in Christ’s authority, sent out to impact the world for His glory. Let us embrace this call with fervor and faith, for in doing so, we participate in the unfolding story of God’s redemptive plan for humanity.

Prayer:

 Heavenly Father, empower us by Your Spirit to carry out the Great Commission with boldness and love. May we be faithful in making disciples, baptizing in Your name, and teaching obedience to Your Word. Thank You for the promise of Your presence, which gives us the courage to go forth in Your authority. Amen.

*Created with AI assistance