“Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee,
to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but
some doubted. Then Jesus came to them
and said, ‘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.’” (Matthew 28:16-20)
Last words are usually important. When someone lies dying, we listen with close
attention to their final words. Their words
often represent a clear glimpse of the heart of the one departing. The words above are some of Jesus’ last
words. They do offer a clear glimpse of
His heart, of what He considered important.
Jesus’ last words were a challenge and a
command to His followers to take His message to others. The command was based upon His authority, an
authority which cannot be challenged anywhere.
It was all encompassing vision, no nation or people were to be left
out. It is to be fulfilled
intentionally, the command is to “go,” not to wait for them to come to us. It contained a clear focus, He is looking for
disciples, those who will follow Him, those who will unashamedly identify with
Him in baptism, and those who will long to hear His will and do it. It offers help to accomplish it, He will be
with us as we go.
The Great Commission was deep in Jesus’ heart
just before He left this world, and it still is. There remain nations that have not yet been heard
the message of Jesus, and people that have not yet responded to it. The challenge and command from Jesus is still
before us!
God loves you, and He loves the world.
His, by Grace,
Steve
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