A Great Commission devotional brings us to the risen Jesus’ final words in Matthew. In Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV), he tells his followers to go and make disciples of every nation, and he promises to be with them every day until the end of history. Every believer has a part in this mission.
Key Verse
“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…” (Matthew 28:19, ESV)
Commissioned by the Risen King
Just before these verses, Jesus says he has been given all authority over heaven and earth. The mission rests on his authority, not ours. The disciples who heard these words were ordinary people, some of whom still doubted. Yet Jesus entrusted them with the greatest task in history.
He does the same with us.
Making Disciples
The central command is to make disciples. That means more than getting decisions. It means helping people follow Jesus over a lifetime. Jesus describes two parts: baptizing them into the triune name of Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and teaching them to keep everything he commanded.
Disciple-making happens through relationships, conversations, mentoring, Bible study, parenting, and everyday faithfulness.
All Nations
Jesus sends his people to all nations. The gospel is not for one culture or group. Some believers will go across oceans. Others will reach neighbors from many backgrounds right where they live. Supporting missionaries, praying for unreached peoples, and welcoming immigrants are all part of this vision.
Every culture is invited into the family of God.
He Is Always With You
The Great Commission ends with a promise. Jesus does not send us alone. He promises to stay with us every day until history ends (Matthew 28:20). When you feel inadequate or afraid to share your faith, remember this. The risen Christ goes with you into every conversation.
You do not need a title or a platform to take part. A grandparent praying with a grandchild, a coworker answering honest questions over lunch, and a small group studying the Gospels together are all part of this global mission.
Making disciples usually happens through ordinary relationships: a coworker, a neighbor, a teenager in your church. Ask God to show you one person you can walk alongside this year.
Today, Try This
Think of one person you could help grow in following Jesus, perhaps a child, friend, or new believer, and plan a time to read Scripture or pray together.
Reflection Question
Who has God placed in your life for you to help follow Jesus?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, all authority belongs to you. Thank you for including me in your mission. Give me courage and love to help others follow you. Bless the nations with your gospel. Thank you that you are with me always. Amen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Great Commission?
The Great Commission is Jesus’ command in Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV) to make disciples among every nation, baptizing them and teaching them to obey his commands, with the promise that he is always with his followers.
Is the Great Commission for every Christian?
Yes. While not everyone is called to cross-cultural missions, every believer is called to help others follow Jesus through witness, prayer, generosity, relationships, and teaching in their own context.
What does it mean to make disciples?
Making disciples means helping people come to faith in Jesus and grow in following him. It includes sharing the gospel, baptizing, teaching his commands, and walking alongside others in a lifelong journey of obedience.
Keep Reading
- Explore more: Gospel studies
- Read more daily devotionals
- The narrow way: what the narrow gate means (Matthew 7:13-14)
- Related: read: Acts 1:8 Devotional
- Related: Fishers of Men Meaning: Jesus’ Call in Matthew 4:19
- Related: Son of Man Meaning: Why Jesus Used This Title (Daniel 7)
- Related: How to Become a Christian: A Simple Bible Guide
- Bible Verses by Topic