The Great Commission
Matthew 28:19 declares: "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
This command from the risen Christ is not a suggestion but a divine commission, rooted in His authority and anchored in God’s eternal plan.
It fulfills the prophetic promise in Daniel 7:13-14: “I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him. He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all nations and peoples of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed.”
Jesus, having been given “all authority in heaven and on earth” (Matthew 28:18), sends His followers to make disciples of every nation—not just converts, but obedient followers.
This global mission echoes God’s heart from the Old Testament. In Psalm 96:3, we are exhorted: “Declare His glory among the nations, His wonders among all peoples.”
Isaiah 52:7 also proclaims, “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger who brings good news, the good news of peace and salvation, the news that the God of Israel reigns!”
Jesus modeled this mission throughout His ministry, seeking the lost (Luke 19:10), sending His disciples two by two (Luke 10:1–3), and praying for their unity and sanctification (John 17:18–21) so that the world may believe.
The early church, empowered by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 2:1–4), boldly obeyed this commission, preaching the gospel to Jews and Gentiles alike (Acts 10:34–35, 13:47).
Yet, this sacred mission can only be truly embraced by those who love God with all their heart and soul, keep the commandments of Jesus, and do the will of the Father. As Romans 10:17 says, “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” But hearing leads to obedience only in hearts fully yielded to Christ.
Matthew 28:19 is not just a scripture-it calls us to live a life full of love for God, faithfulness and obedience to God, and active participation in God's work of salvation.
Only the disciples of Jesus, abiding in Christ (John 15:5), can carry out the Great Commission in the power of the Holy Spirit for the glory of God.
