The Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:16-20, is one of the most important and inspiring moments in the New Testament. As Jesus prepares to ascend to heaven, He charges His disciples with a mission that would shape the course of history. This passage is not just a command; it is a vision for how the Gospel is meant to spread throughout the world, with all nations being called to know, love, and follow Christ.
The Context of the Great Commission
Matthew 28:16-20 captures the final moments of Jesus on earth after His resurrection. He gathers the eleven disciples on a mountain in Galilee, as He had previously instructed them. It’s here that He delivers the powerful mandate to “go and make disciples of all nations.”
Before diving into the command, it’s important to understand that these words are spoken to a group of people who had experienced a mix of awe and doubt. The resurrection of Jesus was a momentous and life-changing event for them, and as they stood before Him, some worshipped, and some still questioned what it all meant. Despite their doubts, Jesus doesn’t hesitate to give them a task that would require great faith and trust.
1. All Authority in Heaven and on Earth
The first part of Jesus’ statement is foundational: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” (Matthew 28:18). Jesus is affirming His sovereignty over all things. This declaration is not just a casual remark; it’s a reminder that He is the supreme ruler of the universe and, because of that, the commission He gives carries divine weight and assurance.
For the disciples—and for us today—this declaration assures us that the mission is not ours alone. Jesus, with all His authority, is with us, guiding and empowering us every step of the way. There is no power or force in this world that can prevent His purposes from being accomplished.
2. Go and Make Disciples of All Nations
The central command of the Great Commission is simple: “Go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). This is the heart of the Christian mission—to make disciples. But what does it mean to make disciples?
A disciple is more than just a follower. In the biblical sense, a disciple is one who learns from, imitates, and commits their life to the teachings of Jesus. To make disciples is not just about converting people; it’s about helping them grow in their relationship with Christ and equipping them to live out His teachings in their lives.
The phrase “all nations” is significant. The Gospel is not meant to be confined to a particular culture, ethnicity, or geographic location. The disciples are being called to share the message of Christ with everyone, everywhere. This has global implications—it means that every corner of the world, every tribe, language, and people group, should have the opportunity to hear about Jesus.
3. Baptizing Them in the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
Baptism is a key element of the disciple-making process. Jesus instructs His followers to baptize new disciples “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19). This is a powerful declaration of the Trinity—the three-in-one nature of God.
Baptism signifies the initiation into the family of God, representing the believer’s death to their old life and resurrection to new life in Christ. It is an outward expression of an inward transformation. By baptizing in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, believers are publicly identifying with the full work of God—Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer.
4. Teaching Them to Obey Everything I Have Commanded You
Discipleship is a lifelong process, and teaching is an essential part of it. Jesus didn’t simply commission His followers to make converts; He instructed them to teach the new disciples to obey “everything I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:20). This is a call to deep, ongoing spiritual formation.
The teachings of Jesus—how to love God, love others, live with integrity, serve the poor, forgive enemies, and live out the Sermon on the Mount—are not optional. They are the foundation upon which discipleship is built. As believers, we are called to teach and live according to these commands, modeling Christ’s life and character to the world around us.
5. I Am With You Always
The final promise that Jesus gives is one of the greatest sources of comfort and encouragement: “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). As we carry out the mission of making disciples, we do not do it in our own strength. Christ, through His Holy Spirit, is with us every step of the way.
This presence is not just a distant reminder but a continuous, empowering presence. Jesus doesn’t leave us to carry out the Great Commission alone. His presence sustains, guides, and empowers us to fulfill His purpose.
Conclusion
The Great Commission is a radical invitation to partner with Jesus in His mission to reach the world with the Gospel. It’s a call to go beyond our comfort zones, to make disciples, baptize, and teach others about Christ. It’s a call to share the life-changing message of Jesus with all people, regardless of culture or background.
Jesus’ final words were not just for His disciples then—they are for us today. We are invited to live out the Great Commission by being intentional in our relationships, reaching out to those around us, and sharing the love and truth of Jesus Christ. And as we do, we can take heart in knowing that He is with us always, guiding us to the very end of the age.
