In the 1800s, British missionary Hudson Taylor sensed God’s call to reach the people of China with the good news. During decades of ministry, more than 800 missionaries were established and 125,000 Chinese became believers in Jesus. Taylor once said, “The Great Commission is not an option to be considered; it is a command to be obeyed.”
As we look into Jesus’ words, we find a loving Savior calling us to a mission flowing from His very heart. Our Great Savior has invited us to reach others for Him.
But before He told us what He wanted us to do, Jesus said, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth” (Matthew 28:18). As we prepare to tell others about Jesus, it’s greatly encouraging to know that He possesses absolute authority!
Jesus then said, “Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you” (Matthew 28:19-20). Hudson Taylor understood what Jesus meant by “go.” He knew that the Savior was saying, While you’re going about your life, while you’re going into your community, tell people about Me! Bring them into God’s family, and teach them to obey God’s Word.
Earlier in Matthew, Jesus had assured us of His presence when we worship Him (Matthew 18:20). Now He assures us of His presence when we witness for Him. As we reveal His love, grace, and truth to others, we can rest in His power and presence. For Jesus says, “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). What great comfort this brings as we strive to boldly share our faith with others.
Like Hudson Taylor, may we grasp our mission and live out our Great Commission as Jesus provides all we need!
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Psalm 103:1-22
More:
Read Mark 16:15, Luke 24:47-48, John 20:21, and Acts 1:8 to read more about the great assignment Jesus has for us!
Next:
Is there someone in your workplace, community, or school with whom you can share the good news this week? How has God equipped you to carry out His mission?
Gary Shultz on May 16, 2015 at 6:38 am
We truly need God’s guidance when it comes to sharing the good news. We have a gift of massive worth and few will even give it passing consideration. So satisfied with with what they have found in life that the message of God’s love is an insult to there world. Christians many places are considered a shameful lot and to be avoided. It is perplexing to me how to share a great message with the intentionally blind. May God give us boldness and discernment. Thank you.
Winn Collier on May 29, 2015 at 3:15 pm
I’m struck by the connection between God’s authority and God’s presence. It seems one goes with the other.