The Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:18–20, is Jesus’ clear and direct command to His followers: make disciples of all nations, baptize them, and teach them to obey everything He commanded. It’s not just a mission for pastors or missionaries—it’s for every believer. Jesus gave this instruction with full authority and promised His constant presence, making it both a calling and a source of confidence for anyone who follows Him.
This mission is just as urgent today as it was 2,000 years ago. Billions still haven’t heard the Gospel, and countless others are searching for meaning. Whether you’re sharing your story, mentoring one person, or supporting global missions, your role in this is essential. Keep reading to unpack exactly how to live this out and discover practical ways you can start fulfilling the Great Commission right where you are.
If you’re a Christian or exploring the faith, one of the most important commands Jesus gave comes at the very end of the Gospel of Matthew. It’s known as The Great Commission. Found in Matthew 28:18–20, this passage defines the mission of the Church—and your role in it.
Let’s break it down together: what Jesus actually said, what it means for you, and why it still matters today.
What Is the Great Commission?
Right before Jesus ascended into heaven, He gave His disciples a final instruction. Here’s what He said:
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 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 28:18–20 (NIV)
This is the Great Commission. It’s not just a nice saying or a suggestion—it’s a direct command from Jesus.
Why It’s Called a “Commission”
Let’s get practical. A commission is an assignment or task someone gives you with authority. Think military or legal—when someone is commissioned, they’re empowered to act.
Jesus isn’t just offering a mission here. He’s giving authority and responsibility. He says, “All authority… has been given to me.” Then He delegates that to His followers—you, me, the whole Church.
So, the Great Commission is Jesus authorizing His followers to go out and do the work He started: make disciples, baptize, and teach.
3 Core Commands in the Great Commission
When you look closely, Jesus gives three specific instructions:
1. Make Disciples of All Nations
- The Greek word for “make disciples” is matheteusate, which means more than just converts. Jesus wants committed followers.
- “All nations” means no one’s excluded. It’s global—different languages, cultures, and backgrounds.
Practical takeaway: You’re called to reach beyond your comfort zone. Whether that’s your neighbor or someone across the world, your mission field is anywhere people need Jesus.
2. Baptize Them
- Baptism is a public declaration of faith. It’s not optional; it’s the biblical next step after someone decides to follow Jesus.
- Jesus says to baptize “in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” That’s the full identity of God and foundational to Christian belief.
Tip: If you’ve never been baptized as a believer, it’s time to consider it. And if you’re discipling someone else, help guide them to this important step.
3. Teach Them to Obey Everything I Have Commanded
- Jesus isn’t after surface-level followers. He wants obedience.
- Teaching someone to obey means helping them understand what Jesus taught—and showing them how to live it out.
Real talk: This takes time. Discipleship isn’t just a one-time prayer; it’s a lifelong process. You don’t need to be a Bible scholar. Just share what you know and keep learning.
The Power Behind the Mission
Jesus doesn’t leave you to do this on your own. He bookends the command with two powerful truths:
1. “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.”
- That means Jesus has the final say over everything—governments, history, even spiritual forces.
- You’re not stepping into this mission alone or weak. You’ve got divine backing.
2. “I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
- He’s not sending you out and stepping away. He’s going with you.
- Through the Holy Spirit (John 14:16–17), Jesus continues to guide, comfort, and empower His followers.
Why the Great Commission Still Matters Today
Let’s be real. The world is more connected than ever—but it’s also more divided. People are searching for truth, identity, and purpose. That hasn’t changed since Jesus walked the earth.
Here’s what has changed: you’re now the hands and feet of Jesus in your community. The Church isn’t a building—it’s people like you living on mission.
Statistics to Consider:
- Over 3 billion people today have little or no access to the Gospel.
- The fastest-growing religions aren’t always Christian.
- Millions of people in your own country don’t attend church or even know what the Gospel really means.
The Great Commission isn’t outdated. It’s more urgent than ever.
What This Looks Like in Your Life
You might wonder, “How do I actually do this?” Here’s how to start:
1. Share Your Story
You don’t need to be perfect. People relate to honesty, not polish. Talk about how Jesus changed your life.
2. Build Relationships
Evangelism isn’t yelling at strangers—it’s loving people where they are. Invite someone to lunch. Be present.
3. Disciple One Person at a Time
You don’t need a crowd. Start with one. Help them grow in their faith through:
- Prayer
- Bible reading
- Life conversations
- Accountability
4. Support Global Missions
If you can’t go to another country, you can:
- Pray for missionaries
- Give financially
- Sponsor a Bible translation project
- Support mission-focused organizations
Examples in the Bible
Jesus modeled the Great Commission even before He said it:
- The woman at the well (John 4) told her whole town about Jesus after one conversation.
- Philip and the Ethiopian (Acts 8) is a one-on-one example of making disciples.
- Paul and Timothy show how mentoring builds leaders (2 Timothy 2:2).
Jesus Himself poured into 12 disciples. Then those disciples changed the world. That’s multiplication—and it starts with you.
Final Thoughts: Your Role in the Mission
The Great Commission isn’t just for pastors or missionaries. It’s for every believer. That includes you.
You don’t need a pulpit. You need:
- A heart for people
- A willingness to speak up
- A commitment to follow through
If you’re unsure where to begin, ask God. He’ll show you who needs to hear the Good News and how to love them well.
“The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.” — Matthew 9:37
Let’s not wait for someone else to do it. Jesus already gave the command. The question now is: Will you go?
10 FAQs About The Great Commission: Jesus’ Command to Spread the Church (Matthew 28:18–20)
1. What is the Great Commission in Matthew 28:18–20?
The Great Commission is Jesus’ final command to His followers before ascending to heaven. In Matthew 28:18–20, He tells them to make disciples of all nations, baptize them, and teach them to obey everything He taught. It’s the core mission of the Church and every believer.
2. Why is it called “The Great Commission”?
It’s called a “commission” because Jesus is giving an authoritative assignment. The word implies responsibility, action, and purpose. It’s “great” because it involves the worldwide mission of spreading the Gospel.
3. Who is the Great Commission for?
The Great Commission is for all followers of Jesus—not just pastors, missionaries, or church leaders. If you’re a Christian, you’re called to participate in making disciples, baptizing, and teaching others.
4. What does “make disciples” mean in this context?
To “make disciples” means to help people become committed followers of Jesus—not just converts. It involves sharing the Gospel, walking with people in their spiritual growth, and helping them live out Jesus’ teachings.
5. Is baptism required in the Great Commission?
Yes, Jesus includes baptism as a key part of the process. It’s an outward expression of an inward faith, symbolizing a person’s new identity in Christ and their commitment to follow Him.
6. How do I know if I’m fulfilling the Great Commission?
You’re fulfilling the Great Commission if you’re actively sharing your faith, helping others grow in their relationship with Jesus, encouraging obedience to His teachings, and supporting the global mission of the Church in some way.
7. What does it mean that Jesus has “all authority”?
When Jesus says, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me,” He’s claiming ultimate power and control. That means you go into the mission with divine backing—there’s no higher authority than Him.
8. How does Jesus promise to be “with us always”?
Jesus assures us of His constant presence through the Holy Spirit. You’re never alone in this mission. The Spirit guides, equips, and strengthens you to do the work Jesus called you to.
9. Is the Great Commission still relevant today?
Absolutely. There are still billions of people who don’t know Jesus. The Great Commission remains the Church’s primary mission until He returns. It’s more relevant than ever in our globally connected but spiritually hungry world.
10. How can I start living out the Great Commission in my daily life?
Start small: share your story, build relationships, and help one person grow in faith. You don’t need a platform—just be willing, available, and intentional. Pray for guidance, and take action where God places you.
