Scripture: Matthew 28:16-20 (NIV)
16 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go.
17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted.
18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.
19 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,
20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Devotion:
As we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, let us reflect on the profound significance of the Great Commission recorded in Matthew 28:16-20. This commission, given by Jesus to His disciples, encapsulates the essence of Easter—transformative redemption and the call to share the good news of salvation with the world.
1. Encounter on the Mountain: The disciples journeyed to the appointed mountain in Galilee, where Jesus had instructed them to go. There, they encountered the risen Christ, and in His presence, they worshiped Him. However, it’s noteworthy that some among them still harbored doubts. Despite their uncertainties, Jesus met them where they were, affirming His authority and commissioning them for a divine mission.
2. Authority and Commission: Jesus declared to His disciples, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” With this proclamation, He entrusted them with a monumental task—the Great Commission. This commission wasn’t just a suggestion but a divine mandate backed by the authority of the risen Lord. As recipients of this commission, we are called to proclaim the gospel boldly, knowing that Christ’s authority empowers and sustains us.
3. Go and Make Disciples: The heart of the Great Commission is the call to go and make disciples of all nations. This entails more than mere evangelism; it involves intentional discipleship—leading others into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and nurturing them in their faith journey. Easter reminds us of the urgency and importance of sharing the message of salvation with a world in need of redemption.
4. Baptizing and Teaching: Baptism symbolizes the believer’s identification with Christ’s death and resurrection, signifying a new life in Him. Through baptism, disciples publicly declare their faith and commitment to follow Jesus. Additionally, discipleship involves teaching and nurturing new believers, guiding them to obey Christ’s commands and grow in spiritual maturity.
5. The Promise of His Presence: Jesus concluded the Great Commission with a promise: “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” This assurance of His abiding presence underscores the reality of Emmanuel—God with us. As we embark on the mission entrusted to us, we do not labor alone but with the constant companionship and guidance of the risen Christ.
As we celebrate Easter, may we heed the call of the Great Commission with renewed zeal and dedication. Let us go forth in the power of the resurrection, sharing the life-transforming message of Jesus Christ with all nations. May His authority, presence, and promise sustain us as we fulfill His mission until the end of the age. Amen.
