SalvationSýnishorn

“I Am with You Always.”

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.




This challenge, spoken by Jesus to His disciples, is commonly known as the Great Commission. Coming to the end of His life, shortly before He returns to heaven, Jesus' charge has special importance.




Jesus commissions each of His disciples, and each one of us, to make disciples. These are our marching orders, our mission, and our mandate:




“Go.” More specifically: as you are going. That is, whenever you go, wherever you go, be making disciples.




“Make disciples.” This is the central command of the sentence. Here is our basic mission in life: Make disciples. Make disciples of Jesus Christ. Make followers of Jesus Christ. Reach them, love them, shepherd them, teach them, and empower them.




“All nations.” This was a huge change. For two thousand years, the Jews focused on one nation, Israel. But now Jesus calls them to an expanded vista. Now, go to all nations, all people groups, and the entire world.




“Baptizing.” After you become a follower of Christ, the next step is to get baptized. Note: baptism follows conversion. Also, baptism is in the name (singular) of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit (plural). Three Persons, yet one name. We are baptized in the name of our triune God.




“Teaching them to observe.” Jesus does not tell us to teach all that He commanded. He does tell us to teach people to obey all that He commanded. Discipleship to Jesus is always obedience-based discipleship.




“I am with you always.” The Great Commission comes with a great promise: I will be with you. Wherever you are, whatever you experience, whenever this might be, count on it: “I will be right there to guide you, protect you, strengthen you, empower you. Surely, surely, I will be with you always.” This is your mission. This is your promise.