Every disciple is called to make disciples. When we become followers of Jesus we are instantly tasked with helping others become fully devoted followers of Jesus. (Matthew 28:16-20)
Sermon OutlinE
“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)
The best way to learn more from Jesus is to believe what He’s already said.
Receiving a clear calling from Jesus doesn’t require perfect faith.
Christ’s life, death, and resurrection gives Him all authority.
- There is now no place we can go where hope can’t also be.
- His way is the most human and fruitful way.
- He shares His authority.
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations,”
- This statement is not just about what we are called to accomplish. It reveals how we are to relate to the people that God brings across our paths.
“baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,”
- We are called to live a life that increases the likelihood of others wanting to identify with Jesus.
- We build that life by seeking to be immersed in the love of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and by helping others to be immersed in that same experience of community.
“and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”
- Another way to say this: Show people how to be caught up in the life that Jesus is living here on earth now.
- His command is to love as He has loved us. (John 14:23, John 15:9-12)
“And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
- Our deepest needs are met by Christ, to know and be known, love and be loved, and to find meaningful connection with our Creator.
- No matter what we experience in life, our ultimate wellbeing is found in the Triune God, whom we can know because of Christ.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- What is one thing Jesus has already made clear to you that you haven’t fully trusted? What keeps you from trusting Him?
- Who will God bring across your path tomorrow? What will it look like to prioritize God’s interests in their lives?
- What does it mean to identify with Christ’s life, death, and resurrection?
- What does it look like to live in a way that immerses others in the fullness of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit?
- What does it mean to be caught up in the life that Jesus is living here on earth now?
- How does Christ meet our deepest needs to know and be known, love and be loved, and to find meaningful connections with ourselves, others, and God?
DIG DEEPER
- Memorize Matthew 28:18-20 and mediate on the significance of each line.
- Read John 14:23 and consider the significance of this promise.
- Read John 15:9-12 and consider what Christ’s command is to us. What does this look like in your life?