When the supreme Lord of the universe delivers his “parting words” to the world—the last words we will hear from his lips until he returns—those words go down in history with unparalleled significance. And that’s what we encounter in Matthew 28:18-20, in which Jesus set forth a clear mission for every Christian: to become a disciple-maker. Put differently, any Christian who isn’t actively working to disciple others is failing the mission.
So, today, let’s take another look at this powerful passage, often called “The Great Commission.” Jesus not only provides the what—making disciples—but also the why and the how. Let’s unpack these verses together, understanding how they form the foundation for our mission as disciple-makers. As we do this, let’s evaluate ourselves spiritually in light of the mission and renew our determination to heed Christ’s final command.
1. Jesus: The Supreme Authority and Our Guiding Star
The first words Jesus speaks in this commission set the tone for everything that follows. He says, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” This declaration is vital. Jesus is not just a wise teacher or an inspiring prophet; He is the Son of God, the One to whom all creation is subject. His authority is supreme over every nation, every government, and every individual.
For us as disciple-makers, this truth must be our guiding star. When we teach others about Jesus, we are not sharing personal opinions or philosophies. We are pointing people to the One who holds ultimate authority in the universe. Our call to make disciples rests securely on this foundation: Jesus reigns supreme. We can be confident that we’re not acting alone—we’re following the One with all authority and power.
2. Taking the Christian Message to All Nations
Based on His supreme authority, Jesus instructs us to “go therefore and make disciples of all nations.” This command leaves no room for hesitation. The gospel is not meant to stay within the walls of our churches or our communities. The gospel isn’t tame like that. No, it’s a message for every person, every nation, every culture. This includes our own nation, the United States, as well as the farthest reaches of the globe.
Disciple-making isn’t a passive task; it’s a proactive mission. Jesus calls us to focus our lives on it, to intentionally structure our days so that we are regularly helping people come to know him or to grow deeper in their walk with him. And if we’re not called to be international missionaries, we’re not “off the hook.” We are called to make disciples right here, right now, in the community where we live.
3. Teaching the Bible: The Heart of Disciple-Making
Jesus doesn’t leave us wondering how to fulfill this great mission. He gives specific instructions: “teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” This is the heart of disciple-making. We are called to teach others everything that Jesus taught.
It’s important to remember that Jesus affirmed the truth and authority of the whole Bible (Mt 5:18). He taught that every word in Scripture is trustworthy, pointing us to God’s plan for salvation and how to live as His followers. As disciple-makers, we need to do more than just share isolated Bible verses or surface-level truths. We must invest deeply in understanding the whole message of Scripture so that we can faithfully pass it on to others.
The Bible is the foundation for disciple-making. Every word of it is essential for equipping Christians to grow closer to Christ and lead others to do the same. As we study and teach God’s Word, we are building solid foundations in the lives of those we disciple, helping them learn how to live in obedience to God’s will.
4. The Promise of Jesus’ Presence
Finally, Jesus provides a promise that gives us strength and courage: “And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” The task of making disciples can feel overwhelming at times. Whether teaching the Bible to a new believer or sharing the gospel in a difficult situation, it’s easy to feel inadequate or afraid. But Jesus reassures us that we are never alone.
He is always present with us. The same power that raised Him from the dead is at work within us, guiding, strengthening, and comforting us as we go about His mission. When we feel uncertain or weak, we can lean into this promise, knowing that the One who has all authority in heaven and on earth is right beside us.
Conclusion
The Great Commission is more than a command; it’s a life-calling rooted in the authority, teachings, and presence of Jesus Christ. As disciple-makers, we are tasked with sharing the message of salvation with all nations, grounded in the truth of God’s Word. But we don’t do it alone. With Jesus as our guiding star and His Word as our foundation, we can move forward confidently, knowing He is with us every step of the way.
At Back to the Bible, our mission is to help Christians embrace this call to disciple-making. By immersing ourselves in Scripture and sharing its life-changing message, we can help others grow closer to Christ daily. So, let’s take this call seriously. Let’s commit to becoming faithful disciple-makers grounded in the Bible and empowered by the presence of our Savior.