The Great Commission, recorded in Matthew 28:18-20, is one of the most powerful and far-reaching commands given by Jesus Christ. It serves as the foundation for Christian mission and evangelism, calling believers to make disciples of all nations. This study will dive deep into the meaning of the Great Commission, breaking down its key elements and exploring its relevance for Christians today.
1. The Authority of Christ (Matthew 28:18)
The Great Commission begins with a bold declaration: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” Before giving the command to go and make disciples, Jesus establishes His authority. This is crucial because it reminds us that we are not engaging in evangelism based on our own strength or abilities but on the authority of Jesus Christ Himself. As Paul writes in Philippians 2:9-11, God has exalted Jesus and given Him a name above all names.
- Relevance Today: As believers, we can confidently engage in the mission of the Great Commission knowing that Christ’s authority empowers us. We are His ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20), representing His kingdom in a world in desperate need of hope.
2. The Command to Go (Matthew 28:19)
Jesus’ command is clear: “Go and make disciples of all nations.” This is not a suggestion, but an imperative. The word “go” implies action, movement, and intentionality. Christians are called to leave their comfort zones, cross cultural and geographical boundaries, and share the gospel with every nation.
- Relevance Today: In today’s globalized world, “going” doesn’t always mean traveling to foreign lands. It could mean reaching out to a neighbor, engaging with someone online, or supporting missionary work. We are called to be intentional about making disciples, wherever we are. Mark 16:15 reinforces this call by commanding believers to “go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.”
3. Making Disciples (Matthew 28:19)
At the heart of the Great Commission is the task of making disciples. It is not enough to simply convert people or introduce them to the gospel; we must help them grow in their faith, teaching them to follow Jesus in all aspects of life. Discipleship is a lifelong process that involves learning, following, and obedience.
- Relevance Today: Making disciples requires investing time and energy into the spiritual growth of others. This can happen through personal mentorship, Bible studies, small groups, or even digital platforms. In 2 Timothy 2:2, Paul emphasizes the importance of discipleship by encouraging Timothy to “entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.”
4. Baptizing Them (Matthew 28:19)
Baptism is a public declaration of faith and a symbol of identification with the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ (Romans 6:4). Jesus includes baptism in the Great Commission as a significant step in the disciple-making process. It signifies a believer’s entry into the community of faith and obedience to Christ.
- Relevance Today: Baptism remains an essential act of obedience for new believers. It is a visible testimony of their commitment to Christ and their inclusion in the body of Christ. Whether in a church building, a river, or a pool, baptism continues to be a powerful declaration of faith.
5. Teaching Obedience (Matthew 28:20)
Jesus commands His disciples not only to baptize new believers but also to teach them to “obey everything I have commanded you.” This includes a commitment to living according to Jesus’ teachings, which cover every aspect of life—love, forgiveness, service, and holiness.
- Relevance Today: Discipleship includes teaching others to live according to the principles of Christ. This means going beyond sharing the gospel and providing sound, biblical teaching that helps believers apply God’s Word to their daily lives. In John 14:15, Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commands.” Our love for Christ is demonstrated through our obedience to His Word.
6. The Promise of Christ’s Presence (Matthew 28:20)
The Great Commission concludes with one of the most comforting promises in Scripture: “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Jesus assures His disciples that they will not be alone as they carry out His mission. His presence through the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-17) will guide, strengthen, and empower them.
- Relevance Today: The promise of Christ’s presence is as true today as it was for the first disciples. As we engage in the work of the Great Commission, we can have confidence that Jesus is with us, guiding our steps and empowering us through His Spirit. In Acts 1:8, Jesus reinforces this by promising that the Holy Spirit will give power to His disciples for the task of being His witnesses.
The Great Commission is not just an ancient command given to a group of early disciples; it is a mandate for every believer today. It calls us to action—making disciples, baptizing them, and teaching them to obey Christ’s commands. Most importantly, it reminds us that we do not go alone; Christ’s authority and presence are with us.
As we understand the depth of the Great Commission, we are challenged to take our role seriously and actively engage in the mission of sharing the gospel with a world that desperately needs it. Let us respond to Jesus’ final command with obedience, urgency, and confidence, knowing that the One who sends us also goes with us.
Key Scripture References:
- Matthew 28:18-20 (The Great Commission)
- Mark 16:15 (Preaching the gospel to all creation)
- Philippians 2:9-11 (The authority of Christ)
- 2 Corinthians 5:20 (Ambassadors for Christ)
- Romans 6:4 (Baptism and new life)
- 2 Timothy 2:2 (Discipleship and teaching others)
- John 14:15 (Obeying Christ’s commands)
- Acts 1:8 (The power of the Holy Spirit in witnessing)
