Good Morning Friends,
“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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