The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19)
Discover the meaning of the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19. Learn how Jesus commanded His followers to spread the gospel, make disciples, and baptize in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Explore its significance and key moral lessons for believers today.
The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19) – Full Explanation & Moral Lessons
Matthew 28:19 (KJV)
The Great Commission is one of the most significant commands given by Jesus to His disciples. It serves as the foundation for Christian evangelism and mission work, calling believers to spread the gospel, make disciples, and baptize them in the name of the Trinity. This verse represents Jesus' final instructions before His ascension into heaven and highlights the universal scope of His message.
Understanding Matthew 28:19
1. The Context of the Great Commission
- After Jesus’ resurrection, He appeared to His disciples in Galilee, as He had promised (Matthew 28:16).
- This was a moment of final instruction, where Jesus transferred the mission of spreading the gospel to His followers.
- His command was not just for the disciples present at that time but for all believers throughout history.
2. Breaking Down the Great Commission
A. “Go ye therefore” – A Call to Action
- The word “go” implies that Christians are to be active, not passive in spreading the gospel.
- This is a missionary command, requiring believers to take initiative in sharing their faith.
B. “Teach all nations” – Making Disciples Everywhere
- The word “teach” comes from the Greek word "mathēteuō", meaning “to make disciples”.
- Discipleship is more than just preaching—it involves teaching, mentoring, and guiding new believers in their faith.
- The phrase “all nations” emphasizes that the gospel is for everyone, regardless of nationality, race, or background.
C. “Baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost” – A Trinitarian Baptism
- Baptism is a public declaration of faith and an essential step in a believer’s journey.
- Jesus specifically commands baptism in the name of the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), affirming the triune nature of God.
3. The Universal Scope of the Great Commission
- Jesus’ command is not limited to a specific group but extends to all people across all nations.
- Christianity is a global faith, meant to reach every culture and community.
- This verse serves as the basis for Christian missionary work and global evangelism.
Key Themes in Matthew 28:19
1. Evangelism as a Core Mission
- Sharing the gospel is not optional for believers—it is a direct command from Jesus.
- Evangelism should be a lifestyle, not just an occasional activity.
2. Discipleship Beyond Conversion
- The command is not just to preach, but to make disciples—this includes teaching, mentoring, and guiding believers in their faith.
3. The Authority of Jesus
- Just before this verse, Jesus declares, “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth” (Matthew 28:18).
- His authority ensures that believers can confidently fulfill the Great Commission with His divine backing.
4. The Trinity’s Role in Salvation
- The command to baptize in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit reflects the unity of the Trinity in salvation.
- God the Father planned salvation, Jesus the Son accomplished it through His death and resurrection, and the Holy Spirit empowers believers to spread the gospel.
Moral Lessons from the Great Commission
1. Obedience to God’s Command
- Lesson: As followers of Christ, we must obey His call to spread the gospel.
- Sharing our faith is not just for pastors or missionaries—it is for every believer.
2. The Importance of Teaching and Discipleship
- Lesson: Christianity is not just about conversion but growing in faith.
- We should be intentional about mentoring and guiding new believers.
3. No One is Excluded from Salvation
- Lesson: The gospel is for all nations, races, and people.
- We must be willing to break barriers and share the gospel with everyone, regardless of their background.
4. Baptism as a Public Declaration of Faith
- Lesson: Baptism is not just a ritual; it is a symbol of transformation and commitment to Christ.
- Every believer should be baptized as an act of obedience to Jesus’ command.
5. Relying on God’s Power
- Lesson: We don’t spread the gospel in our own strength—Jesus has all authority and has given us the Holy Spirit to help us.
Conclusion
The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19 is the foundation of Christian evangelism and discipleship. Jesus commands His followers to:
- Go and share the gospel with all nations.
- Make disciples and teach them to follow Christ.
- Baptize believers in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
This passage emphasizes the global mission of the Church, the importance of discipleship, and the empowering role of the Holy Spirit. As believers, we must embrace our calling to share the gospel, disciple others, and expand God’s kingdom.