The Beginning of Biblical Discipleship: The Great Commission

The Great Commission: The Beginning of Biblical Discipleship

Bible Passage: Mt 28:18–20

Summary: In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus commissions His disciples to spread the Gospel and make disciples of all nations, emphasizing His authority and the promise of His presence.

Application: This passage calls Christians to actively engage in discipleship, urging us to share our faith and mentor others in their walk with Christ. It reminds us that we are not alone in this mission, as Christ assures His presence in our work and struggles.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that discipleship is central to the Christian faith. It involves not only believing in Christ but actively participating in the spread of the Gospel and nurturing new believers.

How this passage could point to Christ: In the context of the Bible, Christ is the ultimate example of a disciple-maker. His life, death, and resurrection provide the foundation for all discipleship, showcasing His authority, love, and commitment to redeeming humanity.

Big Idea: Every believer is called to discipleship, supported by the authority of Christ and His continual presence as we work to fulfill the Great Commission.

Recommended Study: Consider exploring the historical context of the Great Commission using Logos, focusing on the commissioning of the disciples and its implications for first-century Christians. Look into various translations of 'teach' and 'baptize' to understand different interpretations. Assess related passages that discuss discipleship in the New Testament to gain deeper insights into its practical application.

1. Authority Announced

Mt 28:18

You could begin by focusing on the authority of Jesus as the foundation for the Great Commission. Jesus declares that all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Him. This authority assures us of His power and presence as we engage in discipleship. It is a comforting reminder that God empowers us and that we act in His strength, not our own. This point sets the stage for our participation in His mission.

After receiving the submission of the inhabitants of Memphis and of the rest of the Egyptian people, some submitting voluntarily, others under threats, [Antiochus] marched by easy stages towards Alexandria. After crossing the river at Eleusis, about four miles from Alexandria, he was met by the Roman commissioners, to whom he gave a friendly greeting and held out his hand to Popilius. Popilius, however, placed in his hand the tablets on which was written the decree of the senate and told him first of all to read it. After reading it through, he said he would call his friends into council and consider what he ought to do. Popilius, stern and imperious as ever, drew a circle round the king with the stick he was carrying and said, "Before you step out of that circle give me a reply to lay before the senate." For a few moments he hesitated, astounded at such a peremptory order, and at last replied, "I will do what the senate thinks right." Not till then did Popilius extend his hand to the king as to a friend and ally. Antiochus evacuated Egypt at the appointed date, and the commissioners exerted their authority to establish a lasting concord between the brothers, as they had as yet hardly made peace with each other. Ab Urbe Condita, xlv.12.

[12] [1] After the time allotted for the truce had expired, Antiochus’ officers sailed to Pelusium via the mouth of the Nile, while he marched through the Arabian Desert and, after being received by the inhabitants of Memphis and the rest [2??] of the Egyptians, partly through good-will and partly through fear, he came down to Alexandria by short marches. [3] When he had crossed the river at Eleusis, a place four miles away from Alexandria, the Roman envoys met him. [4] As they approached, he greeted them and offered his hand to Popilius; whereat Popilius handed him the tablets containing the decree of the senate in writing, and bade him read this first of all. [5] On reading the decree, he said that he would call in his friends and consider what he should do; Popilius, in accordance with the usual harshness of his temper, drew a circle around the king with a rod that he carried in his hand, and said, Before you step out of this circle, give me an answer which I may take back to the senate. After the king had hesitated a moment, struck dumb by so violent an order, he replied, I shall do what the senate decrees. [6] Only then did Popilius extend his hand to the king as to an ally and friend.

Livy, Books XLIII-XLV With An English Translation, ed. Alfred C. Schlesinger (Medford, MA: Cambridge, Mass., Harvard University Press; London, William Heinemann, Ltd., 1951), 281–283.2. Action Required

Mt 28:19

Perhaps emphasize the action required of believers as Jesus commands us to go and make disciples of all nations. This command challenges us to move beyond our comfort zones, actively engaging with others to share the Good News. The call to baptize signifies our role in bringing others into the family of God. Here, we see our shared mission and responsibility as followers of Christ.

3. Assurance Given

Mt 28:20

Maybe conclude by highlighting Jesus' promise to be with us always, even to the end of the age. This promise of His presence provides assurance and encouragement. As we teach others to obey His commands, we are not left alone. Jesus, who is the ultimate disciple-maker, walks with us, guiding and supporting us in our mission of making disciples, ensuring we never face our challenges alone.

Empowered to Multiply: The Heart of Discipleship

Bible Passage: Mt 28:18–20

Summary: Matthew 28:18-20 recounts Jesus' final instructions to His disciples, where He empowers them by declaring His authority and commissioning them to make disciples across all nations. This transformative message highlights the necessity for believers to actively participate in the mission of spreading the Gospel.

Application: This passage serves as a challenge to Christians to view discipleship as a vital part of their faith journey. It encourages individuals to not only grow in their own faith but to actively share that faith with others, fostering a community of believers who disciple one another. It emphasizes the importance of mentorship and being intentional about spiritual relationships.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that discipleship is a collaborative and generational process that requires commitment from believers. It highlights the significance of evangelism, biblical teaching, and personal investment in the lives of others as essential aspects of living out the Great Commission.

How this passage could point to Christ: Throughout the Scriptures, Christ is seen as the ultimate discipler, modeling the life of self-giving love and teaching. His life laid the foundation for discipleship, emphasizing that it's an ongoing journey that involves personal sacrifice and the pursuit of a deeper relationship with God and others.

Big Idea: Discipleship is not merely a program; it is a call for every believer to grow and multiply their faith by actively engaging others and fostering a community that lives out the Great Commission together.

Recommended Study: I would suggest delving into the sociocultural implications of discipleship within the context of the first-century Roman world using Logos. This insight will illuminate the barriers that early Christians faced and how their commission connected to fulfilling God's redemptive plan. Consider investigating the Greek language used in 'teach' and 'disciple' to gain clarity on the depth of commitment required. Additionally, look into contemporary discipleship models to assess their effectiveness against the biblical mandate.

1. Powerful Authority of Christ

Mt 28:18

You could focus on Jesus' declaration of authority, emphasizing how His supreme authority empowers every believer to participate in His mission. Perhaps explore the magnitude of Jesus’ rule over heaven and earth, suggesting that this authority is the foundation of confidence as we make disciples. This moment reassures us that we're not acting on our own power but are backed by divine authority.

2. Purposeful Mission to All

Mt 28:19

Perhaps highlight the command to go and make disciples of all nations, suggesting that discipleship begins with a proactive step towards engagement with the world around us. This verse invites believers to embrace a global vision, underscoring that discipleship is an inclusive mission that transcends cultural and geographical boundaries.

3. Perpetual Presence of Jesus

Mt 28:20

You could delve into Jesus' promise of His presence, providing assurance that He will be with His disciples always, even to the end of the age. This enduring presence encourages believers to persevere in discipleship, knowing that the one who sends them also accompanies them on this journey. It reassures us of continual support and guidance.