Disciples in Action: Living the Great Commission

Summary: The theme centers on the Great Commission and the call for all believers to actively make disciples and embody their faith in daily life. It emphasizes the transformative power of Jesus' teachings and the importance of evangelism.

Application: This message encourages teens to see themselves as ambassadors of Christ, equipping them to share their faith boldly and to cultivate relationships that lead others to know Jesus. It empowers them to embrace their role in God's mission and make a difference in their communities, schools, and social circles.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that making disciples is not just for missionaries or pastors, but for every believer, including teens. It highlights the necessity of personal witness, spiritual growth, and accountability in the process of discipleship. Teens will learn how to articulate their faith and engage in meaningful conversations about Jesus.

How this passage could point to Christ: In the context of the Great Commission, Jesus emerges as the ultimate disciple-maker who commissioned His followers to continue His work on earth. His presence in the lives of believers empowers and enables them to carry out this mission, demonstrating that Christ is central to the discipleship process throughout Scripture.

Big Idea: Every follower of Christ is called to actively participate in making disciples and living out the Great Commission, which involves sharing faith, nurturing growth, and embodying the love of Jesus in every interaction.

Recommended Study: As you prepare, consider looking into the historical context of the Great Commission found in Matthew 28:18-20 to grasp its implications for the early church and its relevance today. Use Logos to explore commentaries that discuss how different cultures respond to discipleship and evangelism. You might also want to investigate modern applications and testimonies of young people engaging in missions to enhance the sermon’s relevance to your teen audience.

1. Worship Amidst Doubt

Matthew 28:16-17

Perhaps beginning the sermon with the disciples' initial reaction to Jesus' post-resurrection appearance can set the stage. Teens may relate to the mixture of worship and doubt, realizing that faith sometimes involves complexity and growth. You could emphasize that Jesus meets us where we are—even amid uncertainties—empowering each of us to take action in our faith journey.

2. Authority and Assurance

Matthew 28:18

Maybe you could highlight that all authority on heaven and earth has been given to Jesus. This assurance provides the foundation and confidence for carrying out the Great Commission. Reinforce to teens that because Jesus holds all authority, they can have boldness and courage in sharing their faith, knowing they are backed by His power.

3. Go and Influence

Matthew 28:19

Focus on the active imperative of 'Go' and 'make disciples.' Encourage teens to view every environment they are in as an opportunity for discipleship. Perhaps discuss practical ways they can influence their peers and mentor others, emphasizing that disciple-making is an everyday mission that leads to a lifetime impact.

4. Teach and Model

Matthew 28:20a

You could explore the importance of teaching others to obey Jesus' commands. Highlight the necessity of modeling Christ-like behavior and cultivating spiritual disciplines. Maybe suggest that teens engage in small groups or accountability partners as they strive to live out their faith, thus helping each other grow in their commitment to Jesus.

5. Presence in the Journey

Matthew 28:20b

End with the powerful promise of Jesus' continual presence. Reassure your audience that they are never alone in their mission. Engage with the truth that Jesus, the ultimate disciple-maker, is always with them, offering comfort, guidance, and strength. This could empower teens to step out with confidence, knowing God is with them always.