In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus gave His followers a mandate known as the Great Commission – to go and make disciples of all nations. As we examine the state of the world today, it is clear that darkness and suffering are increasing as we draw closer to the end times. However, as believers we are called to sound the alarm and urgently work to finish the Great Commission before Christ’s return.
The Great Commission is Still Relevant
Some may wonder if the Great Commission is still relevant today. With all the evil in the world, it can seem hopeless. But we are reminded that while earthly things will pass away, God’s Word remains forever (Matthew 24:35).
As Christ’s disciples, our mission does not change, even amidst turmoil. We are commanded to go, make disciples, baptize them and teach obedience to Christ (Matthew 28:19-20). This mandate remains until Jesus returns.
Using Media to Spread the Gospel
In our digital age, media provides amazing opportunities to fulfill the Great Commission. Social platforms, websites, video and audio can quickly spread the Gospel worldwide.
While media can’t replace personal evangelism, it connects us to those who may never enter a church. Ministries use Facebook, Instagram, podcasts, YouTube and more to introduce people to the Gospel.
Media also equips disciples in spiritual growth. Bible teachings, sermons, testimonies and encouraging content ground believers in their faith. Providing discipleship resources online allows the Church to make digital disciples.
Making Authentic Disciples
While media is useful, true disciple-making requires personal investment. Transformed lives happen through one-on-one mentoring where spiritual parents model Christ and teach practical obedience to His commands.
Making disciples means walking with people on their spiritual journey – teaching them to pray, study Scripture, share their faith, serve and give. We encourage using their unique gifts for God’s Kingdom. True disciples emulate Jesus in character and deeds.
Converting people is just the start. The Great Commission is fulfilled when new believers are rooted and reproducing, making more disciples.
Working Urgently While It Is Day
Jesus emphasized working urgently because “night is coming, when no one can work” (John 9:4). His return is imminent. We are witnessing increasing evil, disasters and darkness globally.
As Christ’s followers, we cannot become complacent. We must actively compel the lost toward salvation while God’s mercy remains. Our time left to share the Gospel and make disciples is limited.
Let us labor diligently, using every means possible to introduce people to Jesus Christ, the only hope for the lost. The hour is urgent to rescue as many as we can.
Relevant Bible Verses
- “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 28:19-20
- “And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” Matthew 24:14
- “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.” 2 Timothy 4:2
- “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” Luke 10:2
Conclusion
As faithful disciples, we’ve been entrusted with the Great Commission – to evangelize, baptize and disciple all nations. Media provides new opportunities to spread the Gospel widely if used responsibly and biblically. However, making authentic, reproducing disciples requires personal investment and relationship. With Christ’s return approaching rapidly, let us urgently work to expand God’s Kingdom while His grace can still be found. Now is the time to fulfill the Great Commission!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most effective way to share the Gospel today?
Building relationships, showing Christ’s love, sharing your testimony, and clearly communicating the Gospel message when the Spirit opens a door. While media can introduce people to the Gospel, personal connections tend to be most impactful.
How can I make authentic disciples?
Walk closely with people over time, modeling Jesus in your daily life. Teach practical application of obeying Christ through prayer, Bible study, community, serving, and sharing their faith. Provide ongoing mentoring as they grow. Authentic disciple-making takes personal investment.
Why is making disciples so important?
It fulfills the Great Commission and grows God’s Kingdom. Disciples who make more disciples enable exponential expansion of the Gospel’s reach. It develops mature believers to lead future generations in the faith.
What does “make disciples of all nations” mean?
Taking the Gospel to every ethnicity and people group worldwide to start indigenous church movements. Making disciples in all nations involves raising up local leaders to evangelize and shepherd churches in their communities.
How urgent is fulfilling the Great Commission today?
With Christ’s return approaching rapidly, sharing the Gospel and making disciples is extremely urgent. No one knows when He will come back. We must diligently work while we’re able, to bring as many souls as possible into God’s Kingdom.
