Scripture Reading: Matthew 28:18-20
"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.'"
Reflection:
As followers of Jesus Christ, we are called to a mission that is greater than ourselves. The Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:18-20, is not a suggestion but a command from our Lord and Savior. Jesus, who has been given all authority in heaven and on earth, entrusts us with the responsibility of sharing the Good News of salvation with the world. This is not a task reserved for pastors, missionaries, or evangelists alone—it is the duty of every believer.
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| Go and Make Disciples |
The gospel is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes (Romans 1:16). It is the message of hope, redemption, and eternal life through Jesus Christ. If we truly believe in the transformative power of the gospel, how can we keep it to ourselves? The love of Christ compels us (2 Corinthians 5:14) to share this message with others, so that they too may experience the grace and mercy of God.
Key Bible References:Mark 16:15"He said to them, 'Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.'"Jesus' words in Mark reaffirm the urgency and universality of the gospel message. No one is excluded from the call to hear and respond to the Good News.Romans 10:14-15"How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: 'How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!'"This passage reminds us that preaching the gospel is essential for others to come to faith. We are the "beautiful feet" that carry the message of salvation to a world in need.1 Peter 3:15"But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect."Preaching the gospel isn't just about formal evangelism; it's about being ready to share the reason for our hope in everyday conversations, with humility and love.Acts 1:8"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."The Holy Spirit empowers us to be effective witnesses for Christ. We are not alone in this mission; God equips us with His Spirit to boldly proclaim His truth.
Application:
Today, reflect on your role in fulfilling the Great Commission. Are you actively sharing the gospel with those around you? Whether through words, actions, or both, you have the opportunity to be a light in the darkness. Pray for boldness, wisdom, and opportunities to share the hope of Christ with others. Remember, you are not just sharing a message—you are participating in God's redemptive work for humanity.
Prayer:Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of salvation through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help me to boldly and lovingly share the gospel with those around me. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, that I may be an effective witness for Your kingdom. Open doors for me to proclaim Your truth and give me the courage to step through them. May Your name be glorified in all that I do. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Closing Thought:
The gospel is not just a message to be believed; it is a mission to be lived. As you go about your day, remember that you are called to be a bearer of Good News. Let your life reflect the love and grace of Jesus, and may your words point others to the saving power of the cross.
