The Great Commission: Jesus’ Final Call to Action (Matthew 28:16-20, KJV)

In Matthew 28:16-20, we find one of the most defining moments in the Christian faith—Jesus’ final command to His disciples before ascending to heaven. These verses, often referred to as The Great Commission, read:

“Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted. And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” (Matthew 28:16-20, KJV)

The Weight of Jesus’ Words

This moment comes after Jesus’ resurrection—a time of great awe, hope, and transformation. The disciples had witnessed the greatest miracle in history: Jesus conquering death. Yet, even in their joy, Scripture acknowledges that “some doubted.”

Jesus, aware of their uncertainty, reassures them with a bold declaration: “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” (Matthew 28:18, KJV) This is not just encouragement; it is a statement of absolute divine authority. He is Lord over all creation, and this authority is the foundation of His command to go.

The Call to Make Disciples

Jesus gives a clear and unwavering mission: “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations.” (Matthew 28:19, KJV) This wasn’t just a call for the eleven disciples gathered that day—it was a call that echoes through the generations, reaching every believer.

Making disciples goes beyond simply sharing the gospel—it means investing in others, teaching them, and guiding them toward a deeper relationship with Christ. It is a mission that requires both boldness and patience.

Baptism and Teaching

Jesus outlines the two essential practices of discipleship:

1. Baptizing—a public declaration of faith, an outward symbol of an inward transformation. (“Baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.” – Matthew 28:19, KJV)
2. Teaching—guiding others to understand, embrace, and live out Christ’s teachings. (“Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you.” – Matthew 28:20, KJV)

This is not just about converting people—it’s about fostering lifelong discipleship, helping believers walk in faith and obedience.

The Promise of His Presence

Perhaps the most comforting part of Jesus’ commission is His final promise: “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” (Matthew 28:20, KJV)

Jesus doesn’t send us on this mission alone. He assures us of His continual presence, His guidance, and His strength. No matter the challenges, no matter the opposition, He remains with us.

What This Means for Us Today

The Great Commission is not a suggestion—it is a command. It is the heartbeat of the Christian life. Whether through conversations, acts of service, missions, or simply living out faith authentically, every believer is called to participate in this divine assignment.

Are we actively sharing the hope of Christ? Are we investing in the spiritual growth of others? Are we living with the assurance that He is always with us?

The Great Commission is more than a passage—it is a calling that continues today. May we boldly step forward, knowing that Jesus goes with us.

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