Understanding the Great Commission

The Great Commission is a powerful and pivotal command given by Jesus to His disciples, urging them to spread the Gospel to the ends of the earth. It encapsulates the mission of every believer and provides a clear and unwavering directive to share the message of salvation with all nations. This mandate remains at the core of Christian discipleship and mission work today. It is recorded in several Gospel accounts, most notably in Matthew 28:18-20.

What is the Great Commission?

The Great Commission refers to the final instructions Jesus gave His disciples before ascending into heaven. In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus tells His followers: “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, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” This command serves as a call to all Christians to actively participate in the global mission of spreading the good news of Jesus Christ.

The Importance of Evangelism

Evangelism, or sharing the Gospel, is central to the Great Commission. In Mark 16:15, Jesus instructs, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.” This emphasizes the urgency and importance of spreading the message of salvation to every person. Evangelism isn’t just a task for missionaries; it’s a responsibility for every believer to share the hope found in Christ with those around them. As we engage in evangelism, we fulfill our role in God’s greater plan for humanity’s salvation.

Teaching and Baptizing: The Discipleship Process

In the Great Commission, Jesus calls His disciples not only to make new followers but also to nurture and teach them. This involves not only baptizing new believers but also guiding them into a deeper relationship with Christ through teaching His commands. As we read in Matthew 28:20, “teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you,” it’s clear that disciple-making is an ongoing process. Baptism marks the beginning of this journey, but it’s through teaching and building relationships that new believers mature in their faith.

The Global Call of the Great Commission

The scope of the Great Commission is vast and global. Jesus’ command in Acts 1:8 reflects this, where He tells His disciples, “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.” This shows the call is not limited to any specific geographic location but extends to the entire world. The Church’s mission is not confined to one place, culture, or people group, but spans the entire globe, reaching every corner of the earth with the message of Christ.

Empowered by the Holy Spirit

The Great Commission is not something we are called to do alone. Jesus promised His disciples that He would send the Holy Spirit to empower them for the task at hand. In Acts 1:8, Jesus assures them, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you.” This empowerment is essential as believers spread the Gospel and make disciples. The Holy Spirit equips Christians with the strength, wisdom, and courage needed to fulfill the Great Commission, especially in the face of adversity.

The Urgency of the Great Commission

The Great Commission isn’t merely a command; it carries an inherent sense of urgency. Jesus’ final words remind us that the time is now to act and fulfill His mission. In Matthew 9:37-38, Jesus said, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.” This verse highlights the vast need for workers in God’s field. The call to make disciples is not optional but essential for the growth of the Kingdom of God.

Conclusion

The Great Commission is more than a set of instructions; it is a call to action for all believers to engage in spreading the Gospel, making disciples, and teaching others to follow Christ. It compels us to participate in God’s mission to reach the nations and fulfill His plan of salvation. With the power of the Holy Spirit and the guidance of Scripture, we are equipped to go into the world and proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ to all people.

Salvation Prayers : Dear Lord Jesus, I come to you today acknowledging my need for salvation. I confess that I have sinned and fallen short of your glory. But I believe that you died for my sins and rose again. I ask that you come into my heart and be my Lord. I commit to following you and living for you every day. Thank you for your love and for the gift of eternal life. In your name I pray, Amen. Amen If you prayed the above prayers kindly click here to get more information https://xgospel.net/harvest_form/form/?page=16325&salvation=true

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What is the main purpose of the Great Commission? a) To build churches
   b) To make disciples of all nations
   c) To establish governments
   d) To write books
2. According to Matthew 28:19-20, what are believers supposed to do with new disciples? a) Baptize them and teach them to obey Jesus’ commands
   b) Pray for them only
   c) Give them money
   d) Build houses for them
3. Where does the Great Commission extend to according to Acts 1:8? a) Only to the local town
   b) Only to the neighboring country
   c) To the ends of the earth
   d) Only to the city
4. What does the Holy Spirit do in relation to the Great Commission? a) Provides comfort only
   b) Empowers believers for the task
   c) Teaches the Bible
   d) Gives financial resources
5. What does Matthew 9:37-38 highlight about the need for evangelism? a) There are too many workers
   b) The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few
   c) No one needs to hear the Gospel
   d) It is a good idea but not urgent

Discussion Questions

1. How can we, as individuals, actively engage in the Great Commission within our communities?
2. What are some challenges believers face when spreading the Gospel, and how can we overcome them?
3. How does the empowerment of the Holy Spirit change the way we approach the task of evangelism?
4. What are some practical steps to take in order to disciple new believers and help them grow in their faith?

FAQs

Who is the Great Commission meant for?

The Great Commission is meant for all believers, not just for pastors or missionaries. Every Christian is called to make disciples and spread the Gospel.

What should I do if I don’t feel equipped to evangelize?

Start by praying for the strength and courage to share your faith. Remember, the Holy Spirit empowers you, and you can start with small steps, such as inviting someone to church or sharing your personal testimony.

What if I’m not able to travel the world to fulfill the Great Commission?

The Great Commission can be fulfilled wherever you are. You can share the Gospel with those around you, whether they are in your neighborhood, workplace, or school.

How can I teach new believers to follow Jesus’ commands?

You can mentor them by studying the Bible together, praying together, and guiding them through life’s challenges. Encourage them to participate in a local church community and grow in their faith.

Multiple Choice Answers

1. b) To make disciples of all nations
2. a) Baptize them and teach them to obey Jesus’ commands
3. c) To the ends of the earth
4. b) Empowers believers for the task
5. b) The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few