The Great Commission

Friday, June 27



Matthew 28:19-20 (NKJV)
“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.”
Devotion

In the verses preceding this passage, the writer tells us that even after Jesus’s ministry, death, and resurrection that there were some disciples who didn’t believe Jesus was the Son of God. How could there be doubt in anyone’s mind of who Jesus was? Indeed, there were doubters, despite walking side by side with Jesus! Throughout his ministry Jesus fought for his identity in God to be believed. This last plea would be directed to those who knew him best, his disciples. 

Jesus tells them to go and preach the gospel and baptize in his name. He wanted the disciples to know that they would be faced with the same unbelief that was shown to him. He even told them that they would be put in prison, beaten, and tortured for their belief in him. By spreading the word of God regardless of the circumstances, the disciples would demonstrate their belief, or lack thereof, in Him.

Jesus is not only talking to his disciples, but he is also talking to his children. The many of us who bear his name yet keep his word only for ourselves. Let today be the day that an unbeliever is shown the love of God. Spreading the gospel is not just the verbal reiteration of the Bible but also the demonstration of kindness and compassion to others, especially to the ones who have hurt us.

Today's Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for trusting us with the message of salvation. Forgive us for the times we have stayed silent when You prompted us to speak, or withheld love when You called us to show compassion. Stir in us a boldness to go into our homes, communities, and beyond with the gospel, not just in word, but in deed. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.   
 
Apply It Today

Ask the Holy Spirit to show you one person today who needs to experience the love of God through you. Then, take a practical step, whether it’s a kind word, a helpful act, or sharing your testimony, and be the living gospel to them. The Great Commission starts with one obedient act of love at a time.

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