What’s the reason we’re here? It’s a question that cuts to the heart of our existence, and for Christians, the answer goes far beyond simply attending church or living a moral life. If Heaven is our eternal home—a place free from sin, sorrow, and death—why doesn’t God take us there the moment we believe in Christ? The answer is both simple and profound: we’re here to fulfill a mission. That mission is what Jesus calls the Great Commission.
Before returning to Heaven, Jesus gathered His disciples and gave them their final instructions: "Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age" (Matthew 28:19-20, NLT).
This wasn’t a casual suggestion or a task reserved for the spiritual elite. It was a command, grounded in the authority of Christ, and it’s the primary reason we’re still here. Sharing the Gospel—telling others about the love, grace, and forgiveness of Jesus—isn’t just an activity of the church; it’s the mission of the church.
The Authority of Christ
Jesus begins the Great Commission with a powerful declaration: "I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth" (Matthew 28:18).
This statement is foundational. Without Christ’s authority, we would have no right to proclaim the Gospel to anyone. But because Jesus has ultimate authority, He commissions us to go in His name.
This sets Christianity apart from every other worldview or religious system. Jesus’ authority isn’t self-proclaimed—it’s proven. His life, death, and resurrection fulfilled ancient prophecies, and even God the Father declared at His baptism and Transfiguration:"This is my Son, whom I love; listen to Him."
We share the Gospel under the authority of Christ, knowing He has the power to transform lives and the authority to send us into the world.
The Call to Make Disciples
The heart of the Great Commission is the call to “make disciples.” This means much more than simply making converts. Conversion is the starting point, but discipleship is a lifelong journey of learning, growth, and transformation.
Jesus modeled this for us throughout His ministry. He invested deeply in His disciples, teaching them to obey, equipping them for ministry, and challenging them to grow in their faith. His mission was to “seek and save the lost,” and now, as His followers, that mission becomes ours.
Paul reinforces this idea in 2 Corinthians 5:20, calling us “ambassadors for Christ.” An ambassador represents both the message and the character of the one who sends them. As Christians, we are called to represent Christ’s Kingdom in a foreign land, living lives that reflect His love, truth, and grace while pointing others to Him.
Baptizing in the Name of the Trinity
One essential part of making disciples is baptism. While often overlooked, baptism is a critical act of obedience. It’s a public declaration of an inward transformation—a bold line of demarcation between the old life and the new.
Through baptism, believers identify with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. It’s a moment to look back on and remember that we are no longer slaves to sin but alive in Christ. And for the church, baptisms serve as a visible reminder of God’s ongoing work, calling people out of darkness and into His marvelous light.
Teaching Obedience to Christ’s Commands
Discipleship also involves teaching. Jesus doesn’t just tell us to pass on information—He calls us to teach new disciples to obey everything He commanded.
Learning to obey takes time, intentionality, and community. It’s about shaping our character, habits, and worldview through the truths of God’s Word. Discipleship isn’t a sprint; it’s a marathon—a lifelong journey of growing to become more like Christ and inspiring others to do the same.
The Promise of Christ’s Presence
Finally, Jesus concludes the Great Commission with a promise that sustains and strengthens us:"And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age."
This assurance changes everything. We are not left to carry out this mission alone. Through the Holy Spirit, Jesus equips and empowers us every step of the way. His presence gives us the courage to face fears, the wisdom to navigate challenges, and the strength to persevere.
This promise extends until the end of the age—the day when evangelism will no longer be necessary because every believer will be united with Christ in Heaven. But until that day, we have work to do.
Living Out the Mission
So, what does this look like in our everyday lives? Sharing the Gospel isn’t reserved for pastors, missionaries, or those with a special gift for evangelism. It’s a calling for every Christian.
Evangelism doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s as simple as sharing the good news of Jesus with the people around you—your friends, family, coworkers, or neighbors. It means being willing to step out of your comfort zone, trusting that Jesus is with you and will work through you.
If you feel hesitant, remember this: evangelism is not just a responsibility—it’s a privilege. You hold the cure for humanity’s deadliest disease: sin. Sharing the Gospel is the greatest act of love you can offer someone.
Go and Tell
The Great Commission isn’t just a task for the church—it’s the task of the church. Jesus’ command to “Go and Tell” is as urgent today as it was 2,000 years ago. It’s the mission He’s entrusted to us, and it’s a mission we carry out with His authority, His power, and His presence.
So, what’s stopping you? Step into the calling. Share the good news. And remember, as you go, He is with you—all day, every day, until the very end.
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