With one final word from the gospel of Matthew, we come to perhaps its best known passage. So commonly known as the Great Commission, countless Christians hold Jesus’ command to go and make disciples of all nations to be at the heart of why he came. It is certainly foundational.
But what is it to make disciples?
A disciple is quite literally a learner, a follower of a particular teaching. Jesus says that disciples will obey everything he has commanded them. The terms of discipleship are Jesus’ teachings, beginning with baptism.
But perhaps the greatest aspect of this passage comes last.
John Wesley, the famed founder of Methodism, wrote and said a lot of things. Like…a lot. He is one of the most prolific writers of all-time, having lived over 87 years and writing for much of it.
But his final words from his deathbed were simple. They seemed to have been a celebration of the final words of Matthew’s gospel: “The best of all is, God is with us.”
Matthew 28:16-20
Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus told them to go. When they saw him, they worshipped him, but some doubted. Jesus came near and spoke to them, “I’ve received all authority in heaven and on earth. 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, teaching them to obey everything that I’ve commanded you. Look, I myself will be with you every day until the end of this present age.”
Prayer
God,
Thank you for your presence with us, by your spirit, in the character of Jesus. I know I focus on a lot of other things too much sometimes: theological precision and all that. But in the end, I am so grateful for your presence.
I feel your presence in many ways - through creation, friends and family, a good meal, a fresh rainstorm, listening to and watching the waves, the joy of a dog or child. All this goodness flows from you.
But the spirit of Jesus most of all - his love, grace, and compassion.
Help me bare it as much as I receive it, Lord.
By your spirit & in Christ,
Amen.