The Great Commission

Matthew 28:16-20 HCSB
16 The 11 disciples traveled to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had directed them. 17 When they saw Him, they worshiped, but some doubted. 18 Then Jesus came near and said to them, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 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, 20 teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

In order to better understand this great commission we must first answer a few questions. (1) What is a commission? A commission is a command, our responsibility or duty. (2) Who does Jesus make this command to? The command is specifically to the 11 faithful disciples, but also to all born again Believers. (3) What are the 5 commands found in the commission? 1. Go therefore, 2. Make Disciples of all nations, 3. Baptize them in the name of the Father, Son, an Holy Spirit, 4. Teach them to observe everything God commands, 5. Remember that God is always with you.

Now that we know the five commands, let’s dissect them further.

 Command:            Meanings:
Go:                        To be active, move outside the church, go to the lost
Make Disciples:    Share your Salvation story, John 3:16, Roman Road, ABC of becoming a Christian
Baptize Them:       Bring them into church, first step in obedience to God
Teach Them:         Must have firm knowledge before you teach. Must learn before you can teach
Remember:            Even when you feel alone, confused, scared, He is with you.

In reading this we need to understand that this isn’t the Great Suggestion, but a Commission, a command and call to act. Not responding to this call is an act of disobedience.

Bro. Austin Chapman is the Youth Minister
 at Sugar Creek Baptist in Murray, KY and founder
of Inflamed Church Ministries. View Austin's
personal online ministry blog iPursueWorship.