What is the Great Commission?

Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV) states:

“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. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

This passage, known as the Great Commission, contains Jesus’ final instructions to His disciples before ascending to heaven. Let’s explore its meaning:

1. Go and Make Disciples: Jesus commands His followers to go out into the world and make disciples of all nations. This implies an active engagement in spreading the message of the Gospel. It involves sharing the good news of Jesus Christ, inviting people to repentance, and helping them develop a personal relationship with Him. The emphasis is on making committed followers of Jesus who will live out their faith and influence others for the kingdom of God.
2. Baptizing in the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit: Jesus instructs His disciples to baptize new believers in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Baptism is a symbolic act that represents a person’s identification with the triune God and their public declaration of faith in Jesus. It signifies a spiritual rebirth and entry into the community of believers. Baptism is an essential step of obedience for new believers, signifying their commitment to follow Christ.
3. Teaching to Observe: Jesus commands His disciples to teach new disciples to observe all that He has commanded. This involves instructing them in the teachings, principles, and commands of Jesus found in His word, the Bible. It encompasses teaching them to love God and others, to live a life of obedience, and to grow in maturity and spiritual understanding. The goal is to equip disciples to live in accordance with God’s will and to become more like Jesus.
4. The Promise of Jesus’ Presence: Jesus assures His disciples that He will be with them always, even to the end of the age. This promise of His continual presence provides comfort, encouragement, and empowerment for carrying out the Great Commission. It reminds believers that they are not alone in their mission but have the abiding presence and guidance of Jesus through the Holy Spirit.

Matthew 28:19-20 encapsulates the mission and calling of every follower of Jesus Christ. It urges us to go into the world, make disciples, baptize them, and teach them to observe all that Jesus commanded. It is a call to active engagement in sharing the Gospel, nurturing believers, and equipping them to live in obedience to Christ. We can take comfort in knowing that Jesus is with us always, empowering us as we fulfill His Great Commission. May we faithfully respond to this call, making disciples and advancing God’s kingdom in the world.