Day 86: Great Commission

Matthew 28:16-20

Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Comments

The crucifixion of Jesus was such a devastating turn of events that, even after the resurrection, some of the disciples still doubted. What Jesus said next, though, was addressed to all the disciples, even those who had doubts.

The Great Commission, to “go and make disciples of all nations,” focused on teaching new disciples to obey. Jesus emphasized orthopraxis (correct living) rather than orthodoxy (correct doctrine). The commands at the heart of correct living centered on love: love God, love your neighbor, love your enemy, do not love the world.

The disciples were not left on their own to fulfill the Great Commission; Jesus promised to be with them always.

Reflections

To what extent is the Great Commission central to your life and the life of your church?

Jesus told the disciples to go into the world, not to wait until the world came to them. How much of your time is given to “go and make disciples” versus “go to church?”

Prayer

Show me, Lord, what I can do to fulfill the Great Commission, and reassure me that you are with me every step of the way.