Finding My Way Home: A Journey to Discover Hope and a Life of PurposeSample

Your Commissioning

This scripture in Matthew is often called the Great Commission. The resurrected Jesus instructs His disciples to spread the gospel to all the nations of the world. Now, you might be thinking one of two things:

1. “This doesn’t apply to me because I don’t work at a church.”
2. “This feels overwhelming and something I’d rather not think about.”

I want to encourage you: it does include you, and it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. As God showed me His plans for my life, I felt a calling to start a business. I realized I didn’t have to work in a church to minister to people. Instead, the company could be a vehicle to disciple people.

Let’s break the verse in Matthew down a bit.

What is a disciple? A disciple is simply a follower of Jesus. If you have a relationship with Jesus and want to do what He instructs you to do, you are a disciple. You don’t have to be perfect! As we read about the original disciples, the guys Jesus chose to spend the majority of His time with were far from perfect. They struggled with pride, greed, doubt, and the list goes on. Over time, they grew and changed but, just as they were, you are welcome to come as you are.

Teach others as God teaches you. Don’t feel like you need to be a Bible scholar to communicate who Jesus is. Follow Him wholeheartedly. Let Him change you as you study His Word, spend time in prayer, and obey Him. Your life will look different from those around you as you do. God will allow you to share what He has done for you with others. Simply share from your experience, in your words with gentleness and respect, and let God handle the response and outcome.

The promise is for you. Jesus ends His instruction with a promise: He will be with you all the time, everywhere you go. You don’t have to figure out anything on your own or rely on your own wisdom and strength. Instead, you can trust Him as He leads you and invites you to participate in His work along with other Christ-followers. This is good news!

How do you feel when you read about Jesus’ commission for you? How can you walk in His purpose today?