What is the Great Commission?

The Commission in Matthew

The most well-known articulation of the Great Commission is found in Matthew 28:18-20. Here, Jesus declares, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me." This assertion of divine authority undergirds the command that follows: "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."

This passage highlights several key elements. First, the commission is universal, extending to "all nations" (Greek: panta ta ethne, meaning all ethnic groups or peoples, not just political nations). Second, the central command is to "make disciples." The participles "going," "baptizing," and "teaching" explain how disciples are made. Discipleship involves both conversion and ongoing instruction in Christian truth and practice. Third, baptism is an essential step, symbolizing identification with Christ. Fourth, teaching includes "all that I have commanded you," implying comprehensive Christian education and obedience. Finally, Jesus promises his constant presence, affirming that this monumental task is not undertaken in human strength alone.

Companion Passages and Broader Scope

While Matthew provides the most detailed account, other New Testament passages echo and expand upon the Great Commission. In Mark 16:15, Jesus says, "Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation." This emphasizes the public proclamation of the good news. Luke 24:47-48 states, "that repentance and forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things." Luke highlights the content of the message—repentance and forgiveness—and the geographical progression, starting locally and expanding globally.

John's Gospel emphasizes the sending aspect, as Jesus tells his disciples in John 20:21, "As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you." This positions the disciples as continuators of Jesus' own mission. Finally, Acts 1:8 provides a clear outline of the mission's scope and power source: "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." This verse underscores the necessity of the Holy Spirit for fulfilling the commission and describes the expanding geographical reach of their witness.

Together, these passages paint a holistic picture: the Great Commission involves proclaiming the gospel, calling people to repentance and faith, baptizing them, discipling them in obedience to Christ's teachings, and doing so globally, empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Diverse Interpretations and Practical Application

Historically, Christians have affirmed the Great Commission as central to the Church's purpose. While the core command to make disciples of all nations is undisputed, there have been some variations in emphasis and application.

Some traditions emphasize geographical missions, sending missionaries to unreached people groups. Others focus on local evangelism and church planting within their own contexts. Still, others highlight the social implications of the commission, arguing that discerning and living out Christ's commands involves addressing injustice and serving human needs as part of demonstrating the Gospel's transformative power. This latter view often draws on the comprehensive nature of teaching "all that I have commanded you," which includes Christ's ethical teachings (e.g., loving one's neighbor, caring for the poor).

While there may be different emphases on the methods of fulfilling the Great Commission, the fundamental mandate remains: every follower of Christ is called to participate in making disciples. This participation can take many forms: direct evangelism, financial support for missionaries, prayer, living a Christ-like life that attracts others to the faith, or serving in ways that open doors for gospel proclamation. The Great Commission is not just for a select few; it is the collective calling of the entire Church.