The Great Commission: Matthew 28:18-20

“I’m just a NOBODY telling

EVERYBODY

about SOMEBODY

who can save ANYBODY!”

This succinct sign summarizes our responsibility to share the Good News about Jesus with others. Today’s passage speaks to that wonderful challenge and blessed opportunity.

We call it “The Great Commission.”

This text, so familiar to preachers, teachers, and Bible students, is so simple and so well known that we may overlook its depth. It’s a passage pregnant with profound implications.

Note these ten keywords or phrases

All Authority

Every religious concern and question comes back to one issue–authority, which embodies the possession of power and the right to rule. Jesus, not a preacher, pastor, pope, or a modern self-proclaimed prophet, has been divinely given all authority by the Father. Today, God speaks to us through His Son (Heb. 1:1-2). Thus, God implored them and us to “hear Him” (Matt. 17:5).

In Heaven and on Earth

Jesus’ rule is recognized and stated to be universal. He ascended to heaven and occupies a prominent place at the right hand of God. He’s been exalted as both Lord and Christ. The King of kings. And the Lord of lords The blessed and only Potentate (Ax. 2:32-36; 1 Tim. 6:15).

Go

“Jesus, when He gave the great commission to the apostles, set in motion a chain reaction whereby the entire world could be evangelized,” observed Charles Goodall in his 1991 Florida College Lecture, “Evangelizing the Lost.”

Goodall believed by implication and application that “the evangelizing of the lost demands that down through the ages men maintain and perpetuate this chain.”

“Go,” we’re commanded. Too often, we build beautiful buildings, hire dynamic evangelists, and send out invitations, then wait for people to come. Yet, Jesus says we must “Go.”

Make Disciples

The Great Commission is great not only because of its scope but its purpose and focus. Converting people to Christ. Saving the lost. And making disciples. That means followers who seek to become like Christ in character and conduct.

All Nations

The title of J. M. McCaleb’s old hymn is on target–“The Gospel is For All.” All people. All races. All ethnic backgrounds. All socio-economic groups. Worldwide evangelism ought to be the aim of every church to the extent of their ability and opportunity.

Of course, the cultural diversity in the United States, as well as other countries, allows us to share the gospel with people from all walks of life in our hometown.

Baptizing

Jesus clearly stated, “He who believes and is baptized will be saved (Mk. 16:16). The first disciples were baptized “for the remission of sins” (Ax. 2:38). Peter wrote one must be baptized to be saved (1 Pet. 3:21). For it’s through baptism our sins are washed away by the blood of Christ (Ax. 22:16; Rev. 1:5), and puts us into a relationship with Christ (Rom. 6:3-5).

Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit

The Bible teaches there are three that possess Godhood. Not one. Not two. But three. While this is indeed a grand subject worthy of deeper study, Jesus simply states this as fact.

Teaching

Teaching doesn’t end when one is baptized. It’s just the beginning. Discipleship demands study, learning, and continuing to “grow in grace and knowledge” (1 Pet. 3:18). The epistles emphasize the importance of education in the Scriptures (2 Tim. 2:15; 2 Tim 3:16-17).

Observe All Things

Christianity is not about mindless rites and rituals but issues itself in practical obedience and thoughtful observance of our responsibilities and obligations. Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commandments” (Jn. 14:15).

With You

Jesus’ promise to the apostles to be with them also extends to us today. Jesus knows our cares, concerns, and challenges. He feels our pain. Empathizes with our plight. And hears our pleas and prayers. What a comforting thought to know Jesus is with us. Always.

Indeed, the Great Commission is great. Simple, yet profound. Plain, but powerful.

However, Evangelism is the “The preaching of the good news”. The gospel is the message of

• The life, death, burial and resurrection of Christ -1 Cor 15:1-4.

• His present reign over the kingdom of God [church and the universe] Act 8:5,12, Heb 1:1-3, Eph 1:1-23.

The object of evangelism is to convert people to Jesus. Whether people are converted or not, we evangelize via preaching. One plants the seed (word), another waters, while God gives the increase -1 Cor 3:5-8, Lk 8:4-15.

The reason for evangelism is to save sinners, which is essentially adult mankind (Rm 3:23). Recall

• Jesus came to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10) and has not abandoned that goal.

• Mankind needs to be saved from their sins Mt 1:21), the fear of death, the power of the grave (Heb 2:9,14-15) and the wrath of God (Jn 3:16-17,36).

• Humans need to be reconciled with God after the fall in Eden; the restored fellowship is what Christians enjoy (Col 1:20-22), being the ones having all spiritual blessings (Eph 1:3-7) who worship God in spirit and in truth (Jn 4:23-24, Phil 3:3).

• Christ will return to judge the living and the dead Acts 10:42; 17:31, 2 Tim 4:1

• “The Great Commission is not an option to be considered, but it is a command to be obeyed.”