Embracing the Call to Mission

By: Dr. Joseph Yang

Bible passage: Matthew 28: 19-20 NIV

“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.”

Summary:

In Matthew 28:19-20, often referred to as the Great Commission, Jesus instructs His disciples to go forth and make disciples of all nations. This passage encapsulates the essence of mission, calling believers to share the Gospel, baptize new believers, and teach them to follow Jesus’ teachings. As followers of Christ, we are entrusted with the responsibility of spreading His message of love and salvation to the ends of the earth.

Reflection:

The call to mission is not reserved for a select few but is extended to every follower of Christ. It is your responsibility and my responsibility. It is a divine mandate woven into the fabric of our faith, compelling us to actively participate in God’s redemptive work in the world. However, fulfilling this call requires courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment.

Jesus’ command to make disciples of all nations encompasses both evangelism and discipleship. It challenges us to step outside of our comfort zones, engage with people from diverse backgrounds, and share the transformative message of the Gospel. Moreover, it invites us to walk alongside new believers, nurturing their faith and helping them grow in their relationship with God.

As we embark on the mission entrusted to us, we may encounter various obstacles and uncertainties along the way. We may face rejection, opposition, or even persecution for the sake of the Gospel. Yet, we can take comfort in Jesus’ assurance that He will be with us always, empowering and guiding us through every step of the journey.

Mission is not merely a task to be accomplished but a lifestyle to be embraced. It requires a heart that is surrendered to God’s will, a willingness to sacrifice personal comfort for the sake of advancing His kingdom, and a deep love for humanity. It is through our words, actions, and genuine care for others that we become vessels of God’s grace and instruments of His peace in a broken world.

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father,

We thank You for entrusting us with the incredible privilege and responsibility of participating in Your mission of redemption. Give us boldness, Lord, to proclaim Your truth with conviction and compassion, knowing that You are the source of all power and authority. Help us to see people through Your eyes, with love and empathy, and to extend Your grace to all whom we encounter.

Grant us wisdom and discernment as we navigate the complexities of sharing the Gospel in a world that is often hostile to Your message. Strengthen our faith, Lord, and remind us of Your presence with us always, even in the face of adversity. May we be faithful stewards of Your mission, faithfully obeying Your commands and bearing fruit that brings glory to Your name.

In Jesus’ name, we pray.

Amen.

(Photo credit: IMB)