The Great Commission: Our Call to Make Disciples of All Nations
When Jesus rose from the dead, He didn’t just offer comfort—He gave a command. Before ascending into heaven, He left His disciples (and us) with a mission; that mission is known as the Great Commission.
It's not a suggestion. It's not a side project. It's the central purpose of the Church.
What Is the Great Commission?
We find the Great Commission in Matthew 28:18–20:
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go 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 I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Jesus spoke these words with full authority and divine urgency. They are His final recorded instructions before ascending to heaven.
1. “Go and make disciples”
The command isn’t just to “go.” The actual imperative in the Greek is “make disciples.” The “go” is assumed—as you are going, make disciples. This could be across the world, or across the street.
Discipleship goes deeper than conversion. It’s not just about praying a prayer—it’s about becoming a lifelong learner and follower of Jesus.
We can all be good disciples by studying the word and working to apply it more to our personal lives. This will have a chain reaction and may ready 1 or 1000 people but it starts with how we live our lives and the example we want to set.
2. “Of all nations”
The mission is global. Jesus doesn’t just send us to people like us. He calls us to reach every tribe, every language, every culture. This was radical at the time—salvation was being extended beyond Israel, to all humanity.
The gospel is for everyone. It is easy to say “they don’t need this” or “they wont listen”. This is not up to you or I who is receptive or now.
Remember: God wrote you in the Book of life before all of creation. It is not our Job to convince.. it is our job to live fruitfully and share. God is responsible for who actually gets saved and who does not.
"At that time Michael shall stand, the great prince who protects your people. And there will be a time of distress, such as never has been, from the beginning of nations until that time. And at that time your people will be delivered, everyone who is found written in the book."
Daniel 12:1
3. “Baptizing them”
Baptism is the public declaration of faith. It symbolizes death to the old self and rising into new life in Christ. Jesus includes this as part of the disciple-making process—it’s not optional.
To baptize is to welcome someone into the visible family of God.
4. “Teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you”
Discipleship is a journey of obedience, not just knowledge. It’s not just about what Jesus taught—it’s about living it out.
Teaching people to follow Jesus includes modeling the life He lived. Love. Forgiveness. Truth. Holiness. Sacrifice.
5. “I am with you always”
This promise seals the mission with divine comfort. We are not alone in this work. Jesus doesn’t just send us—He goes with us. His Spirit empowers us, His Word guides us, and His presence strengthens us.
Why the Great Commission Still Matters Today
In a world full of distractions, entertainment, self-promotion, and division, the Great Commission calls us back to the heart of our faith.
It reminds us:
The gospel is good news, meant to be shared.
Our purpose isn’t just survival—it’s multiplication.
Evangelism and discipleship are not reserved for pastors—they're for all believers.
Jesus didn’t just call the qualified—He qualifies the called.
Living the Great Commission
Pray for Boldness and Direction
Ask God to open your eyes to the opportunities around you. Who is He calling you to reach? Where is He sending you?
Invest in One
You don’t need a crowd. Start with one person. Meet for coffee. Read scripture together. Ask questions. Walk alongside someone in faith.
Live as a Witness
Your life should reflect the Jesus you preach. People are watching. Be honest, kind, faithful, and forgiving. Your life can speak louder than your words.
Share the Gospel Simply
You don’t need a theology degree. Just share what Jesus has done in your life. Use your story. Keep it real. Keep it Christ-centered.
Multiply Through Mentorship
As you grow, teach others to grow. Help others disciple new believers. Teach them not just what to believe, but how to follow Jesus. That’s how movements start—one disciple at a time.
Final Thought
The Great Commission isn’t about building your platform—it’s about building God’s Kingdom. It’s not about doing big things someday—it’s about doing faithful things today.