Then Jesus came to [the eleven disciples] 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 28:18-20
Go!
What is the best way to grow the church? There are many different thoughts, opinions, and methods. People who promote their approach believe theirs is the best. Unfortunately, many may not produce the promised results.
As a member of Jesus’ Church on earth, and as a soul who has been purchased by the Savior, I need to understand the command the Lord gives. It is clear. It is succinct. It also leaves the results in his hands. Jesus’ command is “go!” He also teaches how and why I should go.
I go with his authority. I am not an independent contractor. I serve because he has commanded me. I also serve knowing he will use me to proclaim his powerful Word which changes peoples’ hearts and lives.
I go to make disciples. My purpose is to point people to their Savior. I undertake a specific work with specific instructions. I teach what Jesus has commanded. I baptize in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
I go with Jesus’ promise. Certainly, I will face many challenges as I take the message of repentance and forgiveness into a rebellious world. Many will reject, even despise what I want to share. My Savior offers me reassurance with the promise of his never-failing presence. I know I am not on my own. I know he has me in his loving care.
Go! It sounds so simple, yet I can make it so complicated. This is why I look to Jesus for forgiveness, for strength, for confidence, and for direction. In my Savior, and with his blessing, I can go.
Prayer:
O Jesus, Lord of the Church and Lord of my life, you have commanded me to go and share your message of salvation which changes lives. Remind me that with your highest authority you are directing this work. Remind me of your never-failing presence. Amen.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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