What are the three points of the Great Commission?
By focusing on going, baptizing, and teaching, believers are called to be active participants in spreading the gospel and nurturing the next generation of followers.
The Great Commission is one of the central tenets of Christianity, encapsulating the mission and responsibilities entrusted to the followers of Christ. Found in the Gospel of Matthew 28:16-20, this scripture outlines the call to spread the gospel and make disciples of all nations. While the Great Commission can be interpreted in various ways, it primarily revolves around three key points: going, baptizing, and teaching.
1. Go and Make Disciples
The first directive of the Great Commission is the command to "go." This isn’t merely about traveling to far-off lands; rather, it emphasizes the proactive approach believers must take to share their faith. The term "go" reflects an obligation to be intentional in evangelism. It is a call to action that encourages Christians to engage with their communities, families, and workplaces. Whether it’s through personal conversations, community outreach programs, or missionary work, the expectation is clear: believers are to be ambassadors of Christ, actively seeking opportunities to introduce others to the message of the gospel.
Going also implies that believers should break out of their comfort zones. It encourages people to transcend geographical, cultural, and social barriers. In today’s world, this could mean venturing into diverse settings, learning new languages, or even leveraging technology to reach people globally.
2. Baptize Them in the Name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit
The second point of the Great Commission is the act of baptism. Baptism is not just a ceremonial act; it symbolizes a person's public declaration of faith and their identification with the Christian community. It signifies a spiritual rebirth and a conscious decision to follow Christ. The command to baptize highlights the importance of initiating believers into the faith community, reflecting their acceptance of the gospel and commitment to a new way of life.
Baptism represents a crucial step in the discipleship journey. It is an act of obedience that publicly affirms an individual's faith and marks their entry into a life-long discipleship relationship with Christ. Moreover, the formula "in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit" reinforces the Christian belief in the Trinity—a foundational doctrine that underscores God's multifaceted nature. This trinitarian baptism is not only an act of obedience but also an acknowledgment of the divine presence in the lives of believers, thereby enriching their faith experience.
3. Teach Them to Obey Everything I Have Commanded You
The final point of the Great Commission focuses on teaching. Jesus commands His followers to teach others to obey all that He has commanded. This aspect speaks to the importance of discipleship and ongoing spiritual growth. It’s not enough to simply bring individuals to faith; they must also be nurtured, educated, and guided in their new spiritual journey.
Teaching involves conveying the message of the gospel, interpreting scripture, and helping others apply biblical principles to their lives. This can take place in diverse settings, such as churches, small groups, one-on-one mentoring, or even through digital platforms. The ultimate goal is to equip believers to live out their faith authentically and effectively in their everyday lives.
Moreover, teaching is not limited to sermons or classrooms; it encompasses demonstrating Christ-like behavior and being a living example of the faith. This holistic approach ensures that individuals understand not just the "what" but also the "why" behind their beliefs, fostering a deeper, more meaningful connection to their faith.
Conclusion
The Great Commission serves as a powerful reminder of the mission entrusted to all Christians. By focusing on going, baptizing, and teaching, believers are called to be active participants in spreading the gospel and nurturing the next generation of followers. Each element plays a vital role in fulfilling the command of Jesus and ensuring that the message of hope, love, and redemption continues to be shared across the world. Embracing these three points enables Christians to realize their part in the greater narrative of faith and to fulfill the Great Commission with passion and purpose.