Week 1: The Great Commission

Key Verse: “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.” – Matthew 28:19-20

Historical and Cultural Context

• The disciples were on a mountain in Galilee, a significant location for Jesus’ ministry
• In Jewish culture, a person’s last words were considered extremely important and binding
• The concept of spreading a religious message to all nations was revolutionary in a time when most religions were ethnic or regional
• The Roman Empire’s road system and common language (Greek) had inadvertently prepared the way for the Gospel to spread

Key Points

1. The Authority of the Great Commission
   • Jesus prefaced the command with His authority: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me”
   • This authority:
     a. Validates the mission
     b. Empowers believers to carry it out
     c. Ensures ultimate success of the mission
2. The Action of the Great Commission
   • The central command is to “make disciples”
   • Three key aspects:
     a. Going – taking initiative to reach others
     b. Baptizing – incorporating new believers into the faith community
     c. Teaching – ongoing discipleship and spiritual growth
3. The Assurance in the Great Commission
   • Jesus promises His presence: “I am with you always”
   • This assurance provides:
     a. Comfort in the face of rejection
     b. Strength for the task
     c. Guidance in sharing the message

Life Applications

1. Personal Responsibility
   • Every believer is called to participate in the Great Commission
   • Practical ways to begin:
     • Start with prayer for opportunities
     • Be prepared to share your faith story
     • Look for natural openings in conversations
2. Community Involvement
   • The Great Commission is fulfilled in the context of the church community
   • Support and encourage one another in evangelism
   • Use various talents to contribute to the overall mission
3. Cultural Engagement
   • Understand and adapt to your cultural context
   • Find relevant ways to communicate the unchanging message
   • Be sensitive to cultural barriers while remaining true to the Gospel

Discussion Questions

1. What fears or obstacles do you face when thinking about sharing your faith, and how does Jesus’ promise of His presence address these concerns?
2. In what ways has someone sharing their faith impacted your own spiritual journey, and what can we learn from their example?
3. How can we balance the urgency of the Great Commission with building genuine relationships and avoiding being pushy or manipulative in sharing our faith?

Additional Scripture References

• Acts 1:8 – Promise of power to witness
• Romans 10:14-15 – Importance of those who share the Gospel
• 1 Peter 3:15 – Being ready to give an answer