KOZ JAN 2026 Outline

Matthew 28:16–20 ESV

Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 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.”

Go and Make Disciples: The Great Commission for Teens

Bible Passage: Matthew 28:16–20

Summary: In this passage, Jesus commands His disciples to go out into the world and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to obey His commands, promising to be with them always.

Application: This message encourages teens to understand their role in sharing the Gospel and making a difference in their communities. It empowers them to see that they have a purpose and calling from God to influence and lead others to Christ, especially in a time when many may feel lost or disconnected.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that the Great Commission is not just for the apostles but for every believer, including teens today. It highlights the importance of evangelism and discipleship, showing how every Christian can play a part in God's mission.

How this passage could point to Christ: This passage reveals Jesus as the risen Lord who has authority over heaven and earth, ensuring His presence with us as we fulfill His command. It reflects the overarching narrative of God's redemptive plan through Jesus, inviting all nations into a relationship with Him.

Big Idea: Every teenager is commissioned by God to share the Gospel and make disciples, empowered by Christ's authority and presence.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon using Logos, consider exploring the historical context of the Great Commission and how it has been understood throughout church history. Look into different interpretations of 'nations' and 'discipleship' and how they apply in contemporary youth culture. Examining the Greek terms used in the passage could also provide deeper insights for your teaching.

1. Doubters Are Welcome

Matthew 28:16–17

You could begin by exploring the disciples' reactions upon seeing the resurrected Jesus. Despite seeing Him, some doubted. This can resonate with teens, who may struggle with doubts about their faith. Emphasize that doubt doesn't disqualify them from the mission. Instead, Jesus includes them in His plan, showing that He can use our imperfections. Encourage teens to bring their questions and doubts to Jesus, trusting in His grace and understanding. Suggest that acknowledging these doubts openly can strengthen their faith and involvement in fulfilling the Great Commission.

2. Divine Authority Empowers

Matthew 28:18

Perhaps highlight how Jesus declares His authority over heaven and earth, setting the stage for the Great Commission. Emphasize that this authority empowers them to act confidently in their mission. Teens can feel small or insignificant, but Jesus' power backs their efforts. Encourage them to actively rest in Christ's sovereignty as they share the Gospel. Remind them that their calling is not based on their own strength, but on Jesus’ all-encompassing authority, reassuring them that they are never alone in their mission.

3. Deploy to Disciple Daily

Matthew 28:19–20

Maybe focus on the command to 'go and make disciples,' showing how teens can engage with this mission in their world—schools, sports, online spaces. Discuss practical steps to share their faith naturally and compassionately, reflecting Jesus’ love. Emphasize the promise of Jesus' presence, encouraging them that He walks with them in every encounter. Suggest that even small acts of kindness and faithfulness can contribute to making disciples and that their consistent witness can plant seeds for God’s Kingdom. Conclude by inspiring them to view their everyday actions as part of this divine mission.

• What is a commission - what does it mean? (An assignment)

• God call us to do certain things (commission). Can you name something He calls us to do? (Read the Bible, train others)

• Around the world today what are some ways Christians are commissioned to be a part of that country, area, those people? (Mission work, building wells, sending money).