The great commission

Definition

The Great Commission refers to the instruction given by Jesus to his disciples after his resurrection, commanding them to spread the teachings of Christianity and baptize all nations. This pivotal directive emphasizes the importance of evangelism and the role of the apostles in establishing the Christian faith throughout the world.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Great Commission is primarily found in Matthew 28:16-20, where Jesus instructs his disciples to make disciples of all nations.
2. This command highlights the significance of baptism as a rite of initiation into the Christian community.
3. The Great Commission serves as a foundational text for missionary work and has inspired countless individuals and organizations to spread Christianity globally.
4. It underscores the concept of the Trinity, as Jesus instructs his disciples to baptize in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
5. The emphasis on 'all nations' reflects an inclusive vision for Christianity, promoting outreach beyond cultural and geographical boundaries.

Review Questions

• How does the Great Commission reflect the early church's mission and its approach to spreading Christianity?
  • The Great Commission reflects the early church's mission by emphasizing evangelism and outreach as central activities. By commanding his disciples to go forth and make disciples of all nations, Jesus set a clear directive for spreading his teachings beyond Israel. This instruction not only motivated the apostles but also laid the foundation for missionary efforts that characterized the expansion of Christianity throughout different cultures and regions.
• Analyze the role of baptism as highlighted in the Great Commission and its significance for new believers in Christianity.
  • In the Great Commission, baptism is highlighted as an essential rite that symbolizes initiation into the Christian faith. Jesus' command to baptize emphasizes not just a physical act but also a spiritual transformation for new believers. It signifies a public declaration of faith, marking their commitment to follow Christ and becoming part of the Christian community. This practice has since become a fundamental element in Christian traditions worldwide.
• Evaluate the implications of the Great Commission on contemporary Christian practices, especially in terms of global missions and interfaith dialogue.
  • The Great Commission has profound implications for contemporary Christian practices, particularly regarding global missions and interfaith dialogue. It encourages Christians to engage actively with diverse cultures and beliefs, fostering understanding while promoting their faith. This pursuit has led many organizations to initiate missionary work across different nations, addressing social issues while sharing their message. Additionally, it raises questions about how Christians interact with other faiths, emphasizing respect and dialogue rather than confrontation, reflecting a more inclusive approach inspired by Jesus' teachings.

Related terms

Evangelism: The act of preaching or spreading the Christian gospel to convert individuals to Christianity.

Discipleship: The process of teaching and mentoring individuals in the faith, encouraging them to follow the teachings of Jesus and live according to Christian principles.

Apostolic Authority: The authority bestowed upon the apostles by Jesus to lead the early church and propagate Christian beliefs.