The Great Commission

This message will explore Jesus’ great commission for disciple-making. (Matthew 28:16-20)

SERMON OUTLINE

“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 28:19-20)

A Return (28:16)

  • 11 apostles (the 12 minus Judas)
  • Leaving Jerusalem
  • A return to where everything started: “Galilee of the Gentiles” (4:15)

A Meeting (28:17)

  • Jesus meets with the disciples
  • The disciples worship Jesus
  • Some of the disciples hesitate or doubt
  • Jesus draws near to speak to them

A Commission (28:18-20)

  • The authority of Jesus (28:18)
  • Go and make disciples of all peoples (28:19)
  • Baptize them in the name of the Triune God (28:19)
  • Teaching them all Jesus’ taught (28:20)
  • The ongoing, abiding presence of Jesus (28:20)

An End and a New Beginning

  • The end of the Gospel of Matthew is a new beginning for the church
  • The end of our journey with this Gospel is a new beginning for us
  • Join the song:
    • Growing as disciples ourselves: word and baptism
    • Making disciples ourselves: declare Jesus’ authority and invite people to become Jesus’ disciples

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

  1. If you were to offer “last words” to someone before you left to never see them again, what would you say?
  2. This week we conclude our series, “The Beginning of the End,” as well as our long journey through the Gospel of Matthew. We turn toward the final words of the Gospel in Matthew 28:16-20. Begin your study in prayer by asking God to speak to you through His Word, and then read that passage aloud.
  3. Why have the apostles returned to Galilee? Why might this be significant for Jesus’ ministry and the writing of the Gospel of Matthew?
  4. In verse 17 these apostles are described as both worshiping Jesus but also doubting or hesitating. Why do you think this combination of feelings or thoughts might simultaneously be present in them?
  5. Some scholars see echoes of other commissions given in the Bible by God to His servants. Take a moment to explore some of other commissions. What similarities do you see with Jesus’ commission of His disciples in Matthew 28?:
    1. Abraham (Genesis 12:1-3; 15:1-7)
    2. Gideon (Judges 6:11-24)
    3. Jeremiah (Jeremiah 1:4-10)
    4. Moses (Exodus 3:1-4:17)
    5. Samuel (1 Samuel 3:1-21)
    6. Joshua (Joshua 1:1-9)
    7. Isaiah (Isaiah 6:1-10)
  6. What would you say are the main elements of Jesus’ commission of His disciples in Matthew 28:18-20?
  7. Why is it significant to the disciples and us that Jesus’ has all authority now?
  8. What do you think it means to make disciples of Jesus?
  9. Why might it be important for the disciples to know Jesus is with them even after He ascends to the Father’s right hand?
  10. How have you tried to make disciples in your own life? Who is someone you are reaching out to share Jesus with in your life right now?
  11. What is one thing you learned or sense God is speaking to you through this study? If you’re in a small group, share that with one another. If you are on your own, write it down and share it with someone this week. Conclude your study in prayer.

DIG DEEPER

  • Memorize Matthew 28:18-20
  • Like the disciples in this scene, take time to worship Jesus as King with words or song. What hesitations or doubts do you have? Name those and bring them to Him in prayer.
  • As we finish our journey through the Gospel of Matthew, return to look over the entire book and write down a list of some of things God has been teaching you or ways God has been growing you through it. Share that with a friend this week.
  • For further insight into the Great Commission, consider reading:
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