When Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” what exactly did He mean? This command, known as the Great Commission, is found in Matthew 28:19-20.
It’s a call for all Christians to share the gospel and make new disciples of Jesus Christ. But how can we do this effectively? Let’s dive deeper into the meaning behind this powerful statement.
Understanding the Great Commission
First, let’s break down each part of Jesus’ command. The word “go” implies that it’s our responsibility as believers to take action.
We can’t simply sit back and wait for people to come to us. We need to actively seek out opportunities to share the gospel.
“Make disciples” means that we’re not just sharing information about Christianity, but we’re also inviting people into a relationship with Jesus Christ. This involves teaching them about God’s love and grace, showing them how to follow Him, and helping them grow in their faith.
The final part of the command is “of all nations.” This means that we’re called to share the gospel with people from all backgrounds and cultures. We shouldn’t limit our outreach based on race, ethnicity, or social status.
Why is it important?
The Great Commission is important because it reflects God’s heart for humanity. He desires for all people to come to know Him and experience His love. As Christians, we have a responsibility to share this message with others.
Additionally, making disciples helps build up the church and strengthen our faith communities. When new believers are added to the body of Christ, they bring fresh perspectives and gifts that can benefit everyone.
How can we fulfill it?
There are many ways we can fulfill the Great Commission in our daily lives:
- Sharing the gospel with family members, friends, coworkers, or strangers
- Participating in local or international mission trips
- Serving in our church or community
- Supporting missionaries financially or through prayer
We can also be intentional about building relationships with people who don’t know Jesus. This means taking the time to listen to their stories, empathize with their struggles, and share about our own faith journey. When we approach evangelism with a heart of love and compassion, it becomes less about converting people and more about connecting them with God.
Conclusion
In summary, the Great Commission is a call for all Christians to share the gospel and make new disciples of Jesus Christ. It’s not just a suggestion or an option – it’s a command that reflects God’s heart for humanity.
As believers, we have a responsibility to actively seek out opportunities to share the love of Christ with others and invite them into a relationship with Him. By doing so, we can fulfill our purpose as followers of Jesus and help build up the kingdom of God on earth.