The Bible is God’s Holy word for us to live by. In it we read about how our world was created, wonderful biographies of many important people, and most importantly, the story and teachings of Jesus Christ. There are many lessons to be learned by reading the Bible. This is also how we receive God’s instructions on how we should live our life. The greatest charge we are given in the Bible comes directly from Jesus Christ. After he is crucified, buried, and has risen from the dead, he meets with his disciples on a mountain in Galilee before he ascends into Heaven. This is where Jesus gives his disciples (and us) The Great Commission.
Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations,baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with youalways, to the very end of the age.”
- Matthew 28:18-20
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” Jesus begins this passage reminding us that the God the Father has given His Son all authority on earth. Jesus is more then just another person, even greater then the profits, He is THE Son of God. Jesus’s words are God’s words and are not to be taken lightly.
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,” Disciple: noun \di-ˈsī-pəl\ - one who accepts and assists in spreading the doctrines of another. In verse 19, Jesus tells us to go and make disciples. He was speaking to His disciples, but this command is for all of us. He wants all of us to accept His teaching, to spread His message to the world, and encourage others to do the same. This Great Commission does not apply solely to His disciples, it is not a job for pastors, deacons, or Sunday school teachers. This is for all of us. All Christians should be spreading the good news to others and making disciples in His name!
“and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” Once we have told others about Christ and encouraged them to become a Christian, our work is not done. We should be a source of encouragement to them. Teach others His commands, let God’s love shine through us, and most importantly, pray for them.
“And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” We are never alone. If we are willing to work for His kingdom, He is always ready and willing to help and guide us. It does not matter if you know exactly what to say, you don’t have to have all of the answers or even be good at talking to others. If you will be the willing vessel, He will work through you!
Some scholars consider Acts 1:8 to be part of the Great Commission.
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Yet another of the many verses that tell us we will receive power from the Holy Spirit. Don’t be concerned with your own ability's. Nothing is impossible for our God! He can turn the most Biblically illiterate person with a horribly speech impediment into the most poetic speaker of God’s word. All you have to do it Trust in Him to Renew your Strength and guide your words. Will you be His disciple? Will you accept Jesus’s Great Commission?