Matthew 28:18-20a

The theme that has driven Matthew's Gospel account along is this: Jesus Christ is the Messiah in whom all Old Testament prophecies are fulfilled. Since God has convinced us of this great truth, what are we to do?  In the concluding scene of Matthew’s Gospel, we are given direction by Jesus to go and make more disciples.

Disciples are followers of Jesus who have come to faith in him as their Savior.  We can’t make disciples on our own.  So Jesus gives us the means.  He tells us to baptize in the name of the Triune God.  Because of the Word of God connected to the water of baptism, it washes away sin and saves people (1 Peter 3:21).  Through the Word and the water, God claims people as his own and gives them forgiveness of sins, eternal life, and salvation.
 
Jesus also wants us to teach everything he commanded.  We are to proclaim to everyone the full message of God, not adding our own ideas, or taking away from its truth, or changing its meaning (Revelation 22:18-19).  By the power of the Word of God, people are brought to faith in Jesus.  By continuing to hear and learn the Word, they are sustained and edified in their saving faith. 

The good news of Jesus Christ – the gospel – offers and gives God's forgiveness and eternal life to people through baptism and the teaching of God’s Word.  By the power of the gospel, God makes disciples of Jesus.
 
The mission that Jesus gives his church is to deliver the message of the gospel to people near and far.  Knowing the love of our Savior and filled with the joy of his salvation, how intently we will strive to carry out his will!.