It is interesting to stand back and look at God’s redemptive plan. For instance, we learn that this plan was developed “before the creation of the world.” (Ephesians 1:4) Throughout history as we know it, God has been working this plan. We just closed out last year being reminded of the birth of God’s son who was named Jesus “because he will save his people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:21) And when the time was right, “Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem.” (Luke 9:51) The redemptive plan of God was coming to a pivotal moment, the death of His Son. The cross gave the appearance that man was in control, but looks can be deceiving. For at the right time in history, Jesus “bowed his head and gave up his spirit.” (John 19:30) Now in the tomb, surely this is a sign of defeat. But the earth shook (Matthew 28:2) and the angels proclaimed, “He has risen, just as he said.” (Matthew 28:6) “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” (1st Corinthians 15:55)
How many of us would love to see our church family grow? I suspect all of us! Well, the purpose of God’s redemptive plan was to “seek and save the lost.” (Luke 19:10) There is a very real sin problem (Romans 3:23) that left alone, will result in spiritual death (Romans 6:23), which in turn will result in eternal separation from God (2nd Thessalonians 1:8-9). For thousands of years, people have been dying from this spiritual cancer called sin and God has provided the remedy, Jesus Christ.
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)
These words spoken by Jesus are what is often called the Great Commission. By commission, we simply means an authoritative order, charge, or direction. Jesus was given “all authority in heaven and on earth” (Matthew 28:18) and He used it at this moment to give the apostles, as well as us, the greatest charge of all; Go and make disciples wherever you go. When it is the right time, bring them into a covenant relationship with me, through baptism. Then, continue to grow together, seeking to learn and do my will. This is our great commission. This is how His church will grow.
Dennis
