Focus 2020 – The Great Commission: Perspectives from LeadersSample

Going with Jesus 

Bible passage: 

When the apostles returned, they reported to Jesus what they had done. Then he took them with him, and they withdrew by themselves to a town called Bethsaida. (Luke 19:10)

I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd. (John 10:16)

Then Jesus came to them and said, “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.” (Matthew 28:18–20)

Devotional: 

Much has been written in recent times about the missional nature of the church, both locally and globally. What does it mean for the church to be “on mission?” What are the appropriate philosophies and strategies that should shape the missional thrust of the church in the world today? Conferences, seminars, periodicals, and more provide forums where these questions are discussed and debated. 

But at its core, what does it practically mean for the follower of Christ to engage in mission? Is there a simple concept that can serve as a compass, allowing us to periodically assess our course as individuals or organizations seeking to fulfill Christ’s instruction to make disciples of all peoples? As I read and re-read the life and ministry of Jesus as recorded in the Gospels, I increasingly ask myself this question: Am I going where Jesus would go? 

It’s pretty clear from reading the Gospels that Jesus had a clear sense of why he had come into the world, from his youth until leaving his disciples on a hill outside Jerusalem following his death and resurrection. 

Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business? (Luke 2:49, NKJV) 

For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost. (Luke 19:10, ESV) 

I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So, there will be one flock, one shepherd. (John 10:16, ESV) 

Jesus came with a mission, one that shaped his words and actions. In brief, he came seeking those who were lost, neglected, suffering, marginalized; people in need of redemption and reconciliation that only God could bring. And he took his early followers along with him, all the way to a cross. 

And so, I ask myself from time to time, were Jesus living in the city, the country, the world in which I now find myself, where would he be going? Who are the people and what are the places that would capture his vision and heart, shaping his days and activities? Then I ask myself and those with whom I together follow Christ, are we going there also? 

Go … make disciples of all nations … and behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age. (Matthew 28:19–20, ESV) 

Quote: The promise of his abiding presence is most keenly sensed by those who are going where Jesus is going in the world today, whether next door or around the world.  

Question: Am I willing to go there with him? 

Dave Hall 

International Director/CEO, TEAM