How To Commission One Another To Be Disciple-Makers
Jesus’ last words to his disciples in Matthew 28:18-20 were, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” And in Acts 1:8, Jesus says, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
How To Commission One Another To Be Disciple-Makers
In a culture of careerism and consumerism, people’s calling can get caught up in a job title, achievements, accolades, etc. While these identifiers are absolutely valuable in helping people understand who they are, Jesus was very clear when he commissioned his followers to make disciples of Jesus. As you continue to discover what it looks like to obey Jesus’ Great Commission in your life with your unique sphere of influence, let this prayer remind you of your ultimate calling, and help others to remember the same. As you gather as a family or with a neighbor or in a small group, turn to a partner. In pairs, take turns placing your prayer partner’s name in each blank as you commission, speaking and receiving Jesus’ words with confidence:
______________, remember, Jesus has been given all authority in heaven and on earth. And Jesus is with us, including you, _______________, even to the end of the age. And he promised, _______________, you have received power because the Holy Spirit has come upon you… so that you, ________________, can be Jesus’ witness, telling people about Him everywhere. Therefore, ____________, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. ______________, teach these new disciples to obey all the commands Jesus has given us. And be sure of this: Jesus is with ______________ always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.