The Great Commission: A Biblical Overview
The Great Commission is a phrase that is often used by Christians to refer to Jesus’ final commandment to his disciples. In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus says, “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.” This commandment is considered by many Christians to be the primary directive for evangelism and mission work.
The Great Commission and Evangelism
One of the key aspects of the Great Commission is evangelism, or the sharing of the gospel message with others. Many Christians believe that this commandment not only applies to the disciples who were present when Jesus spoke these words, but to all believers throughout history. This means that Christians have a responsibility to share the message of salvation with those who have not yet heard it, both locally and globally. Some churches and organizations have even made evangelism and mission work a central part of their identity and purpose.
The Great Commission and Discipleship
Another important aspect of the Great Commission is discipleship, or the process of helping new believers grow in their faith. This involves not only sharing the gospel message, but also providing ongoing support and education to those who have decided to follow Jesus. Many Christians believe that making disciples is just as important as evangelism, since it is not enough to simply share the message of salvation without also helping people become fully devoted followers of Christ.
The Great Commission and Cultural Context
While the Great Commission is seen as a central aspect of Christian faith and practice, it is important to consider the cultural context in which it is executed. Some Christians have been criticized for their evangelism and mission work, as it has been seen as imposing Western or colonial values on other cultures. However, many mission organizations and churches have worked to address these concerns by prioritizing local leadership and cultural sensitivity in their outreach efforts.
The Great Commission and the Future
The Great Commission remains a central theme in Christian theology and practice today. While the methods and cultural context of evangelism and mission work continue to evolve, many Christians see this commandment as a timeless call to share the message of salvation with others and help them become fully devoted followers of Christ. As the world continues to change, it is likely that the ways in which Christians carry out the Great Commission will also evolve, but its central message of spreading the gospel and making disciples will remain a constant.
