The Mission (Matthew 28:9-20)

Our text presents us not just with a narrative to admire but with a commission that demands our entire being—our hearts, our minds, and our actions. "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen." (Matthew 28:19-20).

These words, spoken by our resurrected Lord, are not mere suggestions or dreams of what could be. They are the very essence of our calling as followers of Christ.

This Great Commission is not optional; it is the cornerstone of our identity as disciples of Jesus. It is a charge to action, a call to arms in the spiritual battle for souls waged across the expanse of time and into the eternity that beckons.

The world around us groans under the weight of sin, despair, and darkness. People are searching for hope, for meaning, and for salvation. We have the answer. We possess the message of the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ—the power of God unto salvation for everyone who believes.

“But how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!” (Romans 10:14-15).

The charge before us is clear. We are to go, to make disciples of all nations, immersing them in the transformative truth of the Gospel. This is not a mission we undertake alone.

For the commission comes with a promise of His perpetual presence—"lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world"— this assures us that in our obedience, we are empowered by the very presence of Jesus Christ Himself.

Therefore, let us cast aside every hindrance, every fear, and every doubt that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race before us.

• Let us be bold in our proclamation,
• wise in our teaching,
• and fervent in our love,

that through us, the world might encounter the risen Christ.

The time for hesitation is over. The moment to act is now. The fields are ripe for harvest, but the laborers are few. Will you answer the call? Will you embrace the Great Commission as your personal mandate? Will you carry the message of the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ to a world in desperate need?