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Scriptural Focus: Matthew 28:18-20 (The Great Commission)
• Theme: Understanding that regardless of the times, our mission remains to make disciples and share the Gospel.
• Supporting Scriptures: Acts 1:8 (The call to be witnesses to the ends of the earth).
• Theme: Understanding that regardless of the times, our mission remains to make disciples and share the Gospel.
• Supporting Scriptures: Acts 1:8 (The call to be witnesses to the ends of the earth).
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Lesson 13: Our Mission in These Times
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Chapter 13:
Our Mission in These Times
Introduction
The mission Christ gave us through the Great Commission is unmistakable and everlasting—"Go and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19). As followers of Christ, our purpose transcends time, culture, or circumstance. Whether in seasons of peace or turmoil, the task remains the same. But how do we, as believers, respond to this call in our modern, often chaotic, world? This chapter explores the Great Commission's enduring relevance, offering biblical insights and practical steps for fulfilling our mission today.
World History
Story Consider the mission efforts of William Carey, an early Baptist missionary to India in the late 18th century. Despite immense struggles—cultural resistance, financial difficulties, and personal heartbreak—Carey refused to waver in his calling. His unwavering belief in "Attempting great things for God; expecting great things from God" established schools and translated the Bible into several languages, shaping generations of believers. Like Carey, we are called to persevere, trusting God to carry His Word.
Understanding Biblical Context
Exploring Matthew 28:18-20
Matthew 28 emphasizes monumental truths about Christ's authority and our commission. Jesus boldly declares, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me" (v. 18), grounding the command to make disciples in His divine power. It’s a command, not a suggestion. The Great Commission reflects His lordship, requiring obedience from all who call Christ their Savior. Baptism and teaching underscore our role in connecting new believers to faith and a lifelong process of learning and living the Gospel.
Acts 1:8 – The Empowered Witness
Acts 1:8 highlights the indispensable role of the Holy Spirit. Jesus instructs, "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses... to the ends of the earth." Without the Spirit’s guidance and power, the Great Commission becomes overwhelming. Through the Spirit, however, believers are equipped for boldness, clarity, and supernatural endurance in sharing the Gospel across all cultural and geographic boundaries.
Romans 10:14-15 – The Necessity of Preaching
Paul's words in Romans 10 remind us of the urgency of the gospel message. "How can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent?" (vv. 14-15). Every believer has a vital role in planting and watering the seeds of faith through consistent witness—a role as critical today as it was in the early church.
Illustration
Picture a farmer planting seeds in seemingly barren ground. The seeds may appear to have no results for days, weeks, or even months, but beneath the surface, life stirs. Soon, tiny green sprouts dot the once-lifeless field, growing into a harvest that far surpasses the farmer's initial investment. Similarly, when we share the Gospel, we may not see immediate fruits. But God, who nurtures those seeds, can grow them into something extraordinary beyond what we could imagine.
Exploring Supporting Scriptures
Application
Putting the Great Commission into practice requires commitment and diligence. Here are some ways to live out this mission today:
1. Personal Commitment
Practical Exercise
This week, identify one person in your life who needs to hear the Gospel. Pray for them daily. Seek a natural opportunity to share your faith or invite them to a spiritual event. Journal your experience and reflect on what you learned about God through the process.
Short Story
A new believer, Mike, wanted to obey the Great Commission but felt uncertain about where to start. Emboldened after a church seminar, he decided to share the Gospel with his college roommate, Jake. Mike prayed and initiated a casual yet heartfelt conversation. While Jake didn’t immediately respond, Mike left him with a Bible. Weeks later, Jake confessed he’d been reading scripture and had questions about faith. Mike’s willingness to start a conversation allowed God to work, eventually leading Jake to Christ.
Questions for Reflection
Final Call to Action
The Great Commission is not simply a responsibility but an act of devotion to Christ's ultimate command. His authority empowers us, His Spirit strengthens us, and His mission inspires us. Whether you are planting seeds in your community or supporting global efforts, every action taken in obedience glorifies God.
Take time today to meditate on Matthew 28 and Acts 1. Commit to ensuring the Great Commission is not neglected in your life. Pray for boldness, and trust that the One who promised to be with us always will guide you every step of the way.
"And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." – Matthew 28:20.
Our Mission in These Times
Introduction
The mission Christ gave us through the Great Commission is unmistakable and everlasting—"Go and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19). As followers of Christ, our purpose transcends time, culture, or circumstance. Whether in seasons of peace or turmoil, the task remains the same. But how do we, as believers, respond to this call in our modern, often chaotic, world? This chapter explores the Great Commission's enduring relevance, offering biblical insights and practical steps for fulfilling our mission today.
World History
Story Consider the mission efforts of William Carey, an early Baptist missionary to India in the late 18th century. Despite immense struggles—cultural resistance, financial difficulties, and personal heartbreak—Carey refused to waver in his calling. His unwavering belief in "Attempting great things for God; expecting great things from God" established schools and translated the Bible into several languages, shaping generations of believers. Like Carey, we are called to persevere, trusting God to carry His Word.
Understanding Biblical Context
Exploring Matthew 28:18-20
Matthew 28 emphasizes monumental truths about Christ's authority and our commission. Jesus boldly declares, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me" (v. 18), grounding the command to make disciples in His divine power. It’s a command, not a suggestion. The Great Commission reflects His lordship, requiring obedience from all who call Christ their Savior. Baptism and teaching underscore our role in connecting new believers to faith and a lifelong process of learning and living the Gospel.
Acts 1:8 – The Empowered Witness
Acts 1:8 highlights the indispensable role of the Holy Spirit. Jesus instructs, "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses... to the ends of the earth." Without the Spirit’s guidance and power, the Great Commission becomes overwhelming. Through the Spirit, however, believers are equipped for boldness, clarity, and supernatural endurance in sharing the Gospel across all cultural and geographic boundaries.
Romans 10:14-15 – The Necessity of Preaching
Paul's words in Romans 10 remind us of the urgency of the gospel message. "How can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent?" (vv. 14-15). Every believer has a vital role in planting and watering the seeds of faith through consistent witness—a role as critical today as it was in the early church.
Illustration
Picture a farmer planting seeds in seemingly barren ground. The seeds may appear to have no results for days, weeks, or even months, but beneath the surface, life stirs. Soon, tiny green sprouts dot the once-lifeless field, growing into a harvest that far surpasses the farmer's initial investment. Similarly, when we share the Gospel, we may not see immediate fruits. But God, who nurtures those seeds, can grow them into something extraordinary beyond what we could imagine.
Exploring Supporting Scriptures
- 2 Corinthians 5:20 – Ambassadors for Christ
- Acts 8:4 – Preaching Despite Persecution
Application
Putting the Great Commission into practice requires commitment and diligence. Here are some ways to live out this mission today:
1. Personal Commitment
- Start by sharing the Gospel in your immediate circles—family, coworkers, or friends.
- Engage in regular prayer for opportunities to share your faith and for those in your community who don’t yet know Christ.
- Use social media to communicate the Gospel. Share inspiring scriptures, personal testimonies, or invitations to church events.
- Join or support virtual ministries reaching global audiences through technology.
- Volunteer in church-led outreach programs like food drives, tutoring services, or missionary sponsorship efforts.
- Invite unbelievers to community gatherings to foster connections and opportunities for spiritual discussions.
Practical Exercise
This week, identify one person in your life who needs to hear the Gospel. Pray for them daily. Seek a natural opportunity to share your faith or invite them to a spiritual event. Journal your experience and reflect on what you learned about God through the process.
Short Story
A new believer, Mike, wanted to obey the Great Commission but felt uncertain about where to start. Emboldened after a church seminar, he decided to share the Gospel with his college roommate, Jake. Mike prayed and initiated a casual yet heartfelt conversation. While Jake didn’t immediately respond, Mike left him with a Bible. Weeks later, Jake confessed he’d been reading scripture and had questions about faith. Mike’s willingness to start a conversation allowed God to work, eventually leading Jake to Christ.
Questions for Reflection
- What does it mean to you to make disciples in your daily life?
- How does relying on the Holy Spirit empower you to witness?
- Why is the Great Commission vital for the global church today?
- What challenges often hold you back from sharing the Gospel, and how can these be overcome?
- How do you cultivate a heart for reaching the unreached?
- Could you reflect on a time you shared your faith? What was the result? What did you learn?
- What role does prayer play in preparing to fulfill the Great Commission?
Final Call to Action
The Great Commission is not simply a responsibility but an act of devotion to Christ's ultimate command. His authority empowers us, His Spirit strengthens us, and His mission inspires us. Whether you are planting seeds in your community or supporting global efforts, every action taken in obedience glorifies God.
Take time today to meditate on Matthew 28 and Acts 1. Commit to ensuring the Great Commission is not neglected in your life. Pray for boldness, and trust that the One who promised to be with us always will guide you every step of the way.
"And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." – Matthew 28:20.
Our Mission in These Times Quiz
Lesson 13