Verse of the Day
Thursday, September 5, 2024
Matthew 28:18-20
And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore 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 that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
Introduction
Matthew 28:18-20 contains the words of Jesus, commonly known as the Great Commission. This passage marks the final instructions of Jesus to His disciples before His ascension, emphasizing the global mission to spread the Christian faith and baptize believers in the name of the Trinity.
Commentary
In this powerful passage, Jesus proclaims His divine authority over heaven and earth, which legitimizes His command and the mission He entrusts to His followers. The directive to make disciples extends beyond mere conversion, encompassing spiritual education and lifelong growth in faith. The act of baptizing in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit underscores the Trinitarian understanding of God fundamental to Christian doctrine. The promise of Jesus’ perpetual presence reassures the disciples of divine support as they spread the gospel.
Understanding Context
The Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20 serves as a pivotal moment in the Gospel of Matthew, encapsulating the fulfillment of Jesus’ earthly ministry and setting the stage for the apostolic age. Positioned after Jesus’ resurrection and before His ascension, these verses underscore the transition from Jesus' physical ministry to the spiritual leadership of His disciples. The instruction reflects the early Christian emphasis on community, teaching, and the expanding horizon of the gospel to all nations, contrasting with the earlier restriction to the "lost sheep of Israel" (Matthew 10:5-6).
Application for Today
Today, the Great Commission challenges individuals and churches to engage actively in evangelism and discipleship. This mission involves not only spreading the Christian message but also nurturing a deep, transformative faith in others. It encourages a move beyond cultural and national boundaries, advocating for a universal approach to ministry. Moreover, the enduring presence of Jesus provides comfort and motivation in the face of challenges and adversities in ministry.
Reflection
How am I personally responding to the Great Commission? Are there ways I can more effectively contribute to the making of disciples within my community and beyond? How does the promise of Jesus’ presence affect my daily walk and the way I engage with the challenges of life and ministry?
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible, copyright © 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Verse of the Day is a daily inspirational and encouraging Bible verse extracted from BibleGateway.com. Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM.
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