The Great Commission is our vision, Matthew 28:18-20
The Great Commission, outlined in Matthew 28:18-20, forms the core of our vision and mission, encapsulating Jesus’s final directive to His followers: “Go and make disciples of all nations.” This call is not just a task; it is a lifestyle and commitment that we embrace wholeheartedly as we carry forward Christ’s message to every corner of the world. Jesus’s words are foundational, empowering us with divine authority and inspiring us to bring hope, transformation, and purpose to people of all backgrounds, cultures, and nations.
In this passage, Jesus begins by declaring, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” This powerful statement reinforces that our mission is supported by God’s ultimate authority and that nothing stands outside His reach. As we go forth, we are not alone in this work. Rather, we are accompanied by the One who rules all things, giving us confidence in our calling and assuring us that obstacles will be overcome through His power.
Making Disciples of All Nations
Jesus’s instruction, “make disciples of all nations,” is a clear invitation to reach out beyond familiar boundaries. It emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in the Kingdom of God, encouraging us to bring people from every ethnicity, language, and culture into a relationship with Him. To make disciples is to invite people into a journey of faith, encouraging them to grow, learn, and walk closely with Jesus. This disciple-making process isn’t just about teaching; it involves nurturing, mentoring, and empowering others to become followers who can also go and make disciples themselves.
Baptism and New Beginnings
As Jesus continues, He instructs, “baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Baptism symbolizes a public commitment to Christ and a spiritual rebirth, where individuals declare their faith and commit to a new life in God. Through baptism, believers are welcomed into the Christian community, experiencing a profound bond with God and a supportive network of fellow believers. It’s an opportunity for individuals to leave behind their old lives and enter into a life of freedom, purpose, and unity with God and the church.
Teaching and Transformation
“Teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you” speaks to the importance of spiritual growth and obedience. We are called to be more than hearers of the Word; we are called to be doers. By teaching and grounding others in the teachings of Jesus, we foster an environment of growth and transformation. The commands of Christ include love, forgiveness, compassion, humility, and the call to be peacemakers. These teachings are designed to reshape lives, empower individuals, and spread the love and wisdom of God into every relationship and community.
Opportunities to STAY and GO: Embracing the Mission Locally and Globally
In fulfilling the Great Commission, we are given two vital paths: staying and going. For some, the mission field is local—right in our neighborhoods, workplaces, and schools. Cross-cultural missions at home allow us to reach out to diverse communities, building bridges of faith and sharing Christ’s love in our own cities. This may involve developing programs, hosting events, and engaging with individuals from various backgrounds, introducing them to the message of hope.
For others, the call to “go” may lead them to distant lands, where they engage in global missions, bringing the gospel to unreached or underserved communities. These opportunities often involve immersive cross-cultural work, where missionaries experience and learn about new cultures and develop meaningful relationships, ultimately sharing the gospel in ways that resonate with the unique needs and values of each community.
Assurance of His Presence
Finally, Jesus promises, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” This reassurance is the foundation of our courage and faith. The journey of fulfilling the Great Commission is challenging, often requiring great sacrifice, patience, and perseverance. But we are never alone. This assurance of Christ’s constant presence means that, whether we are serving locally or abroad, in times of trial or triumph, His Spirit is guiding, comforting, and empowering us.
The Vision of the Great Commission
Our vision, rooted in the Great Commission, calls us to spread the gospel with both boldness and compassion, reaching every nation, every language, and every person. We are here to ignite hearts, inspire change, and share the message of Christ in every way possible. Whether through words, actions, or the example of a life lived for God, we are committed to transforming lives and building a world that reflects God’s love and kingdom.
