The Great Commission
Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “Make disciples of all the nations.” Matthew 28:18a,19b
Jesus’ Great Commission involves a command for us believers to “make disciples of all the nations.” But what does that command mean? A disciple, first, is a pupil, someone who is learning. A disciple, second, is an adherent, someone who follows the teachings learned. To “make disciples” therefore, means to lead people to Jesus, so that they can learn the truths of His Word and then willingly and joyously put them into practice.
To make disciples, we must first be disciples. Jesus said: “Whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock.” (Matthew 7:24) When anyone hears and does what Jesus says that person is His disciple, and He promises that person: “You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” (John 8:32) When we know Jesus’ truths, we are free from sin, guilt, shame, fear, death, and Satan. When we know Jesus’ truths and put them into practice, we are free to love, serve, pray, praise, and live with hope. It is regarding that hope, which motivates our Christian lives, that Peter says: “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” (1 Peter 3:15 NIV).
We are privileged to share a message with our world that the Holy Spirit uses to lead people to faith and into discipleship. “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God,” Paul proclaims. (Romans 10:17) That word of God, when proclaimed, will not return to God without accomplishing what He pleases! Speaking on behalf of God and His word, Isaiah states: “It shall accomplish what I please, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.” (Isaiah 55:11b) Let us, therefore, listen to and carry out Jesus’ command to make disciples, fulfilling the Great Commission to His glory and for the blessing of all who hear us!
Dear Lord Jesus, help us to remain Your faithful disciples, as we seek to make disciples of all the nations. Amen.