The Whole Story (continues)
There are some words that echo across time — not
because they were shouted, but because they were commissioned. Words that don’t
simply inform us but transform us. Matthew 28:18–20 is one such moment. These
are not the reflections of a dying man, but the marching orders of a risen
King. Jesus Christ, crucified for sin and raised in power, gathers His
disciples on a mountain — not to reminisce, but to release. He declares, “All
authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” With that authority, He
sends out His followers — not just to go somewhere, but to go everywhere.
This is not a passive suggestion but a royal
command to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the triune name of
God and teaching them to obey everything He has commanded.
And He does not send them out alone — He
sends them with His power, His presence, and His promise: “I am with you
always, to the end of the age.” In these words, we hear the heartbeat of our
mission and the foundation of our hope. The Great Commission is not just a
church strategy — it is the church’s identity. We are a people sent, empowered,
and sustained by the Lord of all. This passage is not the end of Matthew’s
Gospel — it is the beginning of ours.
Matthew 28:16-20
The Great Commission
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
Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001
by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Matthew
28:16-20
Discussion Questions
1. When you hear the word “authority,” what
comes to mind — and how does understanding Christ’s total authority change your
view of mission?
2. Why do you think Jesus started the Great
Commission with worship (v.17)? What does that teach us about where mission
begins?
3. What are some practical ways you can “make
disciples” in your everyday life — at work, school, or home?
4. Why do you think Jesus includes both
baptizing and teaching in His command? How do these show the full picture of
discipleship?
5. How does the promise of Jesus’ presence
encourage you when you feel unqualified, fearful, or discouraged about sharing
your faith?
Closing Thoughts
The Great Commission isn’t calling for a few —
it’s calling for the church. Every follower of Jesus is sent out with
authority, equipped by His Spirit, and surrounded by His presence. We are not
spectators but participants in God’s redemptive plan for the world. The same
Jesus who conquered the grave now sends us to make disciples in our
neighborhoods, schools, and nations. The mission may seem overwhelming, but the
power of Christ and the presence of His Spirit make it possible.
So, the question is — who is God sending you
to reach, disciple, or walk alongside this week?
END
