Making disciples of all nations

“Go and make disciples of all nations…” These are the last words of the resurrected Christ to his disciples in Matthew’s Gospel. With a mission this important, you’d think he’d be calling on his A-Team. But before Jesus begins speaking we’re told that those gathered are at best a ragtag crew. The text says they simultaneously worship and doubt him. It is these folks, people with one foot in and another foot out, that Jesus enlists into his service.

Take note: in his recruitment address, Jesus does not call for the uncertain to become certain; neither does he chastise those who’ve been with him from the beginning for being slow to commit. Instead, he commissions these people, who do not have their act together, to go and make new disciples. 

We might wonder if this was a good idea. These folks?! People who constantly misunderstand him? Might he have been a little more selective? Not according to Jesus. It is indeed them, people like you and me—believers and doubters, saints and sinners—to whom our Lord gives ‘The Great Commission.’

 Maybe over the last week you’ve been wondering if you’re worthy to act, march, or speak up on behalf of Christ and the kingdom of God. You, with all of your fear? “Me, with all of my uncertainty?” Yes, you. The One who has been given “all authority in heaven and on earth” has declared you worthy, and he promises to be with you as you take action—even in your missteps: “with you to the end of the age.” 

Grace and Peace,

Ben