In our last post, we explored the importance of evangelism and why it matters. This week, we delve into the foundation of evangelism—the Great Commission. This directive from Jesus is the cornerstone of Christian mission and purpose. Understanding the Great Commission and its implications is crucial for every believer. Let’s unpack what the Great Commission entails, its context, and its ongoing relevance for us today.
What is the Great Commission?
The Great Commission is found in Matthew 28:18-20, where Jesus gives His final instructions to His disciples before ascending to heaven:
“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 28:18-20
This passage highlights several key components:
1. Authority of Jesus
2. Command to ‘Go’
3. Making Disciples
4. Baptism
5. Teaching Obedience
6. Promise of Jesus’ Presence
Understanding the Context
To fully appreciate the Great Commission, we need to understand its context. After His resurrection, Jesus appeared to His disciples multiple times over a period of 40 days. These appearances were marked by teaching, encouragement, and preparation for their future mission.
In Matthew 28, Jesus meets His disciples on a mountain in Galilee. This setting is significant because mountains in the Bible often symbolize moments of divine revelation and authority. Think of Moses receiving the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai or Jesus’ transfiguration on a high mountain. By choosing this location, Jesus underscores the importance and solemnity of His message.
The Authority of Jesus
The Great Commission begins with a declaration of Jesus’ authority:
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” – Matthew 28:18
This statement is foundational. Jesus’ authority is comprehensive, encompassing both the spiritual and physical realms. This authority is derived from His victory over sin and death through His resurrection. It is on the basis of this authority that Jesus commissions His disciples.
Understanding Jesus’ authority is crucial because it assures us that the mission is not dependent on our strength or wisdom. When we engage in evangelism, we do so under the authority of the risen Christ, who reigns supreme over all creation.
The Command to Go
Jesus’ command to “go” is an imperative, not a suggestion. It requires intentional action and movement. This command challenges the notion of passive Christianity. Believers are called to actively engage in the mission of spreading the gospel.
The word “go” implies crossing boundaries—cultural, geographical, and social. It involves stepping out of our comfort zones and reaching out to those who have not yet heard the good news. The scope of this mission is global, encompassing “all nations.” You can take note of the scope of the field also in Acts 1:8 – where it concludes with the ends of the earth.
“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Acts 1:8 NKJV
Making Disciples
At the heart of the Great Commission is the call to make disciples. A disciple is a follower or learner. Making disciples involves more than just converting individuals; it includes nurturing and guiding them to maturity in their faith.
Discipleship is a lifelong process. It requires teaching, mentoring, and modelling the Christian life. The modelling aspect is very important as it is not enough to teach by words but by actions. Checkout 1 Thessalonians 1:5 (the Paul’s example) and Acts 1:1 (The Jesus example)
For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance, as you know what kind of men we were among you for your sake.1 Thessalonians 1:5
The former account I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach
Acts 1:1
As disciples grow in their faith, they, in turn, become disciple-makers, perpetuating the cycle of spiritual multiplication.
Baptism
Jesus instructs His disciples to baptize new believers “in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Baptism is a public declaration of faith and identification with the triune God. It symbolizes the believer’s union with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. You can read Romans 6:3-11 for a breakdown of what happens in baptism.
Baptism is not just a ritual; it is an integral part of the discipleship process. It marks the beginning of the believer’s new life in Christ and their incorporation into the community of faith.
Teaching Obedience
Teaching is a crucial component of the Great Commission. Jesus commands His disciples to teach new believers “to obey everything I have commanded you.” This teaching involves imparting knowledge, but it goes beyond that—it encompasses guiding believers to live out their faith in obedience to Christ’s commands.
Obedience to Jesus’ teachings is evidence of genuine discipleship. It involves a commitment to live according to His will and to grow in holiness and Christlikeness. Teaching obedience requires patience, persistence, and a deep understanding of Scripture.
The Promise of Jesus’ Presence
The Great Commission concludes with a powerful promise:
“And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:20
This promise is a source of immense comfort and encouragement. Jesus assures His disciples that they will not be alone in their mission. His presence will accompany them, empowering and guiding them as they carry out His mandate.
This promise is not limited to the original disciples; it extends to all believers throughout history. The presence of Jesus, through the Holy Spirit, is with us today as we engage in the work of evangelism. Evangelize with the consciousness that Jesus Christ is with you.
Relevance for Today
The Great Commission is as relevant today as it was when Jesus first spoke it. Here are some reasons why:
1. The Mission is Unfinished
“Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the labourers are few.” – Matthew 9:37
Despite the advances in global evangelism, there are still billions of people who have not heard the gospel. The mission field remains vast, and the need for evangelism is urgent. The Great Commission compels us to reach out to these unreached populations with the message of Jesus.
2. Cultural Diversity
Our world is increasingly multicultural and interconnected. This presents unique opportunities for evangelism. The Great Commission’s call to “all nations” resonates in a world where people from diverse backgrounds and cultures are within our reach. We are called to embrace this diversity and share the gospel across cultural boundaries.
3. Technological Advancements
Technology has revolutionized the way we communicate and connect. The internet, social media, and other digital platforms provide unprecedented opportunities to spread the gospel. The Great Commission challenges us to harness these tools for evangelism, reaching people in ways that were previously unimaginable. In a future post, we will consider 7 quick ways to evangelize in the age of technology.
4. Personal Growth
Engaging in evangelism is not just about impacting others; it also leads to personal spiritual growth. Sharing our faith deepens our understanding of the gospel, strengthens our relationship with Christ, and enhances our reliance on the Holy Spirit. The Great Commission is an invitation to grow in our own discipleship as we make disciples. As a vessel, used by God to prepare the various posts on this platform it has been and continue to be a great privilege to know and do more as I discover the treasures in the Word of God. Evangelism is a personal growth enabler.
Practical Steps to Fulfill the Great Commission
1. Pray for Guidance and Boldness
Prayer is essential in fulfilling the Great Commission. Ask God to guide you to opportunities to share the gospel and to give you the boldness to speak. Ephesians 6:19-20 is a great prayer to adopt:
“Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.”
Ephesians 6:19-20
2. Build Relationships
Evangelism is most effective within the context of genuine relationships. Invest time in building relationships with people in your community, workplace, and social circles. Show them the love of Christ through your actions and be ready to share the gospel when opportunities arise.
3. Share Your Testimony
Your personal story of how you came to faith in Christ is a powerful tool in evangelism. It is unique to you and can resonate with others in ways that theological arguments might not. Be prepared to share your testimony and how Jesus has transformed your life. I recently recorded a short video of my testimony and will share it shortly as an example.
4. Use Resources
There are many resources available to help you share the gospel effectively. Tracts, books, videos, and online tools can provide useful frameworks and conversation starters. Equip yourself with resources that align with your style and context. Visit our Resource page for tools you can equip yourself and your team with.
5. Join Evangelism Efforts
Get involved in evangelism efforts through your church or local community. Many churches have evangelism teams or outreach programs that provide training and opportunities to share the gospel. Joining these efforts can provide support, accountability, and encouragement.
6. Leverage Technology
Use technology to reach people with the gospel. Social media, blogs, podcasts, and videos are powerful platforms to share the message of Jesus. Be creative and intentional in using these tools to spread the gospel. For example, the YouVersion bible app allows you to share the verse of the day directly on social media. You can even make the image of the verse you “status” on WhatsApp, the popular messaging app. There are many others which we will bring to you in the future.
7. Disciple New Believers
Making disciples doesn’t end with conversion; it involves nurturing and guiding new believers in their faith. Invest time to disciple others, teaching them to obey Jesus’ commands, and helping them grow in their relationship with Christ.
Take Away
The Great Commission is Jesus’ mandate to His disciples and to all believers throughout history. It is a call to go, make disciples, baptize, and teach obedience. It is a mission that reflects the authority of Jesus, the heart of God, and the power of the gospel. It is a mission that has eternal implications.
As we embrace the Great Commission, we participate in God’s redemptive plan for the world. We become instruments of His grace, sharing the good news of Jesus Christ and inviting others to experience the transformative power of the gospel.
Let us commit ourselves to this mission with passion, dedication, and reliance on the Holy Spirit. Let us remember Jesus’ promise that He is with us always, to the very end of the age. And let us go forth as faithful witnesses of His love and truth.
Next Steps
Join us next week as we explore “Understanding the Gospel: What Is the Good News?” We’ll break down the core message of the gospel and how to communicate it effectively. Until then, may you be filled with the boldness and joy of sharing the good news of Jesus Christ.
Thank you for reading. If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts on the Great Commission, please leave a comment below. Let’s continue this journey together!
Welcome to our first post in the series on evangelism. If you’ve ever wondered why evangelism is crucial, why it’s a recurring theme in Christian circles, or why you should be involved, this post is for you. Evangelism is more than just a church activity or a religious duty; it is the heartbeat of Christian faith and mission. Want to know what we call the Great Commission? Let’s dive in and explore why evangelism matters, how it reflects the character of God, and what it means for you personally and collectively as a believer.
Understanding Evangelism
At its core, evangelism is the act of sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. Simple, isn’t it? The term originates from the Greek word “euangelion,” which means “good news” or “gospel.” Evangelism is about proclaiming this good news to others, inviting them to experience the transformative power of Jesus Christ in their own lives. It is inviting people to experience Jesus personally.
Why Evangelism Matters
1. Biblical Mandate: The Great Commission
Evangelism is not just a suggestion; it is a command from Jesus Himself. In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus gives His final instructions to His disciples before ascending to heaven:
“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, baptising 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.'”
This passage, known as the Great Commission, underscores the importance of evangelism. It is a directive for all believers to go, make disciples, baptise, and teach. It is a mission that encompasses the entire globe and extends until the end of time. Evangelism is an act of obedience to Jesus’ command.
2. Reflection of God’s Heart
Evangelism reflects the very heart of God. God’s desire is for all people to come to know Him and experience His love, grace, and salvation. In 2 Peter 3:9, we read:
“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
God’s patience and desire for repentance demonstrate His loving and redemptive nature. Evangelism aligns us with God’s heart and His redemptive plan for humanity. It is through evangelism that we participate in God’s mission to reconcile the world to Himself.
2 Corinthians 5:19
“That is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation.”
3. Power of the Gospel
The gospel is the power of God for salvation. Romans 1:16 states:
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.”
The message of Jesus Christ has the power to transform lives. It offers hope, forgiveness, and a new beginning. Through evangelism, we share this life-changing message with others, allowing them to experience the same transformative power.
Jesus truly loves everyone, but they just don’t know it yet. That knowledge is transmitted by sharing the gospel.
4. Fulfillment of Our Identity
As believers, we are called to be witnesses of Christ. Acts 1:8 says:
“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.”
Witnessing is not just something we do; it is who we are. Our identity as Christians is intertwined with our mission to be witnesses. Evangelism is a natural outflow of our relationship with Christ and our desire to see others come to know Him.
5. Impact on Eternity
Evangelism has eternal implications. When we share the gospel, we are inviting others to enter into a relationship with God that has everlasting consequences. John 3:16 emphasises this:
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
The stakes are high. Evangelism is about more than just improving someone’s life here and now; it is about their eternal destiny. Understanding this weighty responsibility motivates us to share the good news with urgency and compassion.
“It is too risky to find out that there is life after death when you are dead.”
SLAVOR
Evangelism greatly reduces this risk for everyone we encounter with the gospel of Jesus.
Overcoming Common Objections
Despite understanding the importance of evangelism, many believers hesitate to engage in it. Here are some common objections and how to overcome them:
1. Fear of Rejection or Ridicule
It’s natural to fear rejection or ridicule but remember that Jesus Himself faced rejection. John 15:18-20 reminds us:
“If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you, A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also”
Facing rejection for the sake of the gospel aligns us with Christ’s own experience and should be seen as a part of our journey as His followers.
Generally, no one likes facing the truth but the truth actually sets free. John 8:32 says:
“And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”
Jesus
Let your knowledge of this truth propel you above the fear of rejection or ridicule.
2. Lack of Knowledge or Confidence
Many people feel unprepared to share their faith because they believe they don’t know enough. However, evangelism is not about having all the answers; it’s about sharing your personal experience with Jesus in the light of God’s love. 1 Peter 3:15 encourages us:
“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.”
Focus on sharing what Christ has done in your life and trust the Holy Spirit to guide your words. Share the transformations that has happened in your life but more importantly the rest Jesus promised as stated in Matthew 11:28-29:
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
You must take time to read and study the Word of God systematically so that you are always increasing in the knowledge of God. Check out 2 Timothy 2:15
“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth”
3. Belief that Evangelism is Only for Certain People
Some believe that evangelism is only for pastors, missionaries, or specially gifted individuals. However, the Great Commission is for all believers. Ephesians 4:11-12 tells us:
“So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.”
While there are specific roles within the church, every believer is called to share the gospel in their unique context.
Matthew 28:19-20 is for all believers:
“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.”
4. Cultural Sensitivity and Political Correctness
In today’s diverse and pluralistic society, sharing one’s faith can be seen as intrusive or intolerant. It’s important to approach evangelism with sensitivity and respect for others’ beliefs. Colossians 4:5-6 advises:
“Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”
Balancing truth with love and respect opens doors for meaningful conversations. There is no need to go into political topics or arguments. Our goal is to let the world know about Jesus.
Practical Steps to Engage in Evangelism
1. Pray for Opportunities
Prayer is the foundation of evangelism. Ask God to open doors for you to share the gospel and to give you the boldness to speak when opportunities arise. Colossians 4:3-4 is a good reminder:
“And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should.”
2. Live a Life That Reflects Christ (Holiness)
Your lifestyle can be a powerful testimony. Matthew 5:16 says:
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Living out your faith authentically can attract others to Christ and create opportunities for you to share the gospel.
3. Be filled with the Holy Spirit
Acts 10:38 gives us Jesus’s secret to reaching the world and we must follow that pattern.
“How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him.”
acts 10:38
Your effectiveness as a witness is tremendously increased when you are filled with the Holy Spirit as stated in Acts 1:8:
“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
Jesus
The Holy Spirit has more information and insights than you do, so rely on him.
4. Build Genuine Relationships
Evangelism is most effective within the context of relationships. Invest time in building genuine relationships with people. Listen to their stories, understand their struggles, and show them the love of Christ through your actions.
Galatians 5:6 (NKJV)
“For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but faith working through love.”
5. Share Your Personal Testimony
Your personal story of how you came to faith in Christ is a powerful tool. It is unique to you and can resonate with others in ways that abstract theological arguments might not. Be ready to share what Jesus has done in your life and how He has made a difference.
6. Use Resources
Apart from the Bible, there are many resources available to help you share your faith effectively. Books, tracts, videos, and online tools can provide useful frameworks and conversation starters. Equip yourself with resources that align with your style and context.
7. Join or Form an Evangelism Team
Working with others can provide support and encouragement. Many churches have evangelism teams that go out together to share the gospel. If your church doesn’t have one, consider forming a group of like-minded individuals who are passionate about evangelism.
8. Attend Evangelism Training
Many organisations and churches offer training in evangelism. These programs can equip you with practical skills and confidence. Look for local or online courses that can help you grow in your ability to share the gospel. Check out our Resources page, you might find some free useful resources.
Conclusion
Evangelism matters because it is a command from Jesus, it reflects God’s heart, it has the power to transform lives, it fulfils our identity as witnesses, and it has eternal implications. Despite the challenges and objections, every believer is called to engage in this mission. By praying for opportunities, being filled with the Holy Spirit, living out our faith, building genuine relationships, sharing our personal testimonies, using resources, joining evangelism teams, and attending training, we can become effective witnesses for Christ.
As we embark on this journey of evangelism together, let’s remember the words of Jesus in Matthew 9:37-38:
“Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.’”
Jesus
May we be those workers, faithfully sharing the good news of Jesus Christ and participating in God’s redemptive mission for the world.
Next Steps
Join us in the next post as we delve into “The Great Commission: Jesus’ Mandate to His Disciples.” We’ll explore the biblical foundation of evangelism and what it means for us today. Until then, may God bless you as you seek to be a faithful witness of His love and truth. Step out and start evangelising!
Thank you for reading. If you have any questions or would like to share your own experiences with evangelism, please leave a comment below. Let’s continue this journey together!
