The Great Commission

And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 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, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. Matthew 28:18-20

Authority –  Strong’s G1849 – exousia – the power of rule or government (the power of him in whose will and commands must be submitted to by others and obeys)

Go – Strong’s G4198 – poreuō to lead over, carry over, transfer

Disciples – Strong’s G3100 – mathēteuō – to make a disciple, to teach, instruct

Baptizing – Strong’s G907 – baptizō – to cleanse by dipping or submerging, to wash, to make clean with water, to wash one’s self, bathe

Teaching – Strong’s G1321 – didaskō – to hold discourse with others in order to instruct them, deliver didactic discourses

To observe – Strong’s G5083 – tēreō – to observe (Notice to perceive and register it as being significant)

This discussion took place between Jesus and eleven of his disciples on the mountain following Jesus’ resurrection and before He ascended to Heaven. Jesus told the disciples to go, He told them to make disciples in ALL nations (Not just Israel). He told them to baptize the people and to teach the disciples of all nations everything that Jesus had taught them to observe. He also reassured the disciples that He would be with them also.

God has called everyone of His followers to the great commission. He wants all of us to go outside the four walls of the church to make disciples. Every believer is called to baptize and to teach. This is what it really means to be a follower of Christ. Being a follower of Christ is not just about my personal salvation, but about helping others grow in Him.

I enjoy helping others go deeper in their relationship with God. I believe this is best done through reading the Scripture and prayer. The majority of my ministry happens outside the four walls of the church. Although I believe that God has called me to minister to His body, I just dont often do it from a pulpit or platform. I have never baptized anyone, but do go and make disciples and teach.

Lord, I have never thought about the great commission including baptism. I know I have neglected this, so if it is something that You want me to do provide that opportunity. Lord help me to be obedient to go, to make disciples, and to teach all that You have called Your people to observe. Let me fulfill the call You have on my life. In Jesus name, Amen.