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Bob Utley · Citado em PreceptAustin
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Utley - SPECIAL TOPIC: SABBATH (NT) The Sabbath was a sign between the Lord and the nation of Israel—the sign of the Old Covenant (the Law)—that they might know He is the Lord Who sanctifies them, sets them apart. Israel was to observe the Sabbath because it was holy, set apart, for them. The one who profaned the Sabbath, did not treat it as holy, was put to death. The Sabbath, the seventh day, was to be a day of complete rest. Israel was to keep it throughout their generations as a perpetual covenant. But after the captivity arose the school of the Pharisees, and by them the attractive (positive) character of the Sabbatical observances was destroyed. In place of the joy, they imposed upon the people the yoke of a scrupulous, slavish sabbatarianism which made the Sabbath an END instead of a MEANS, hampered the spirit of true worship, and laid greater stress upon a punctilious obedience to mere human regulations than upon God's commands in the Law. Some of their ridiculous Sabbath prohibitions included: walking in the grass on the Sabbath because its bruising effect would constitute a kind of threshing; wearing nailed shoes because they would be viewed as carrying a burden. It was against this absurd perversion of the commandment that the Lord Jesus protested. He refused to sanction Pharisaical legalism and vigorously defended His Sabbath miracles (see table below). Jesus kept the Sabbath in the highest sense of the term. He observed every jot and tittle of the Mosaic Law in the freedom of the spirit. He taught us that acts of necessity and mercy are to be performed always (as in this story in Lk 13:10-17), even on the Sabbath, and worldly occupations are to be put as far as possible out of our thoughts. In the Christian church the first day of the week (Sunday) has been substituted for the last day (Saturday) as a day of worship and rest. This, however, is in commemoration of the resurrection of Christ. Christians are to do what the New Testament says. Jesus fulfilled the ceremonial, sacrificial part of the Old Testament law when He died on the cross (Hebrews 10:7-10). He told Peter that the dietary laws no longer applied to the church (Acts 10). True believers keep the moral part of God’s laws as they live by His Spirit (Ro 8:1ff -see notes). The Hebrew word {Shabbath,} from which our English word is derived, signifies rest, and is applied to all solemn festivals, equally with that one day of every week devoted to the worship of God; Eze 20:21, "they polluted my sabbaths." Three evangelists say, the transaction recorded in this verse, occurred upon the first day of the week, early in the morning, about sunrising, and John says, while it was yet dark. [Opse sabbaton] does not signify "in the evening of sabbath," but "sabbaths." Hence, the great feast having been concluded, the term "end of the sabbaths" denotes the time very clearly. Again, it may be observed that the Jews, speaking of their passover, sometimes speak according to their civil computation, wherein they measured their days from sun-rising to sun-rising. Sometimes according to their sacred computation, which was from sun-set to sun-set. This reconciles Nu 28:18, which seems to make the fourteenth day of the first month, the first day of unleavened bread. C H
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Utley points out that "Luke 24:4 and John 20:12 record two angels. This variation between one or two persons or angels is common among the Gospels, but the number is reversed, usually it is Matthew's Gospel that has "two." Other examples are: the Gadarene demoniac (Mark 5:1; Luke 8:26) and the two demoniacs (Matt. 8:28) and the blind man (Mark 10:46; Luke 18:35) and two blind men (Matt. 20:30) Related Resources: BORROW Michael Green's - The Empty Cross of Jesus BORROW John Wenham's - Easter Enigma - "a sustained and brilliant attempt to make sense of all the details of the five accounts of the resurrection to be found in the New Testament." BORROW Peter Walker's superb book The Weekend that Changed the World BORROW George E Ladd's I Believe in the Resurrection Matthew 28:4 The guards shook for fear of him and became like dead men. KJV Matthew 28:4 And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men. BGT Matthew 28:4 ἀπὸ δὲ τοῦ φόβου αὐτοῦ ἐσείσθησαν οἱ τηροῦντες καὶ ἐγενήθησαν ὡς νεκροί. NET Matthew 28:4 The guards were shaken and became like dead men because they were so afraid of him. CSB Matthew 28:4 The guards were so shaken from fear of him that they became like dead men. ESV Matthew 28:4 And for fear of him the guards trembled and became like dead men. NIV Matthew 28:4 The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men. NLT Matthew 28:4 The guards shook with fear when they saw him, and they fell into a dead faint. NRS Matthew 28:4 For fear of him the guards shook and became like dead men. NJB Matthew 28:4 The guards were so shaken by fear of him that they were like dead men. NAB Matthew 28:4 The guards were shaken with fear of him and became like dead men. YLT Matthew 28:4 and from the fear of him did the keepers shake, and they became as dead men. MIT Matthew 28:4 Those securing the tomb were so shaken by their fear of him they became like dead men. The guards: Mt 28:11 Mt 27:65-66 shook for fear: Job 4:14 Ps 48:6 Da 10:7 Ac 9:3-7 16:29 Rev 1:17 Resurrection of Jesus Christ-Devotionals Matthew 28 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: Matthew 27:62-66+ Now on the next day, the day after the preparation, the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered together with Pilate, and said, 63 “Sir, we remember that when He was still alive that deceiver said, ‘After three days I am to rise again.’ 64 “Therefore, give orders for the grave to be made secure until the third day, otherwise His disciples may come and steal Him away and say to the people, ‘He has risen from the dead,’ and the last deception will be worse than the first.” 65 Pilate said to them, “You have a guard; go, make it as secure as you know how.” 66 And they went and made the grave secure, and along with the guard they set a seal on the stone. SOLDIERS SHAKE AT SPIRITUAL SIGHT The guards (tereo) shook (seio) for fear (phobos) of him - The word guards is actually a verb (tereo) which literally means to keep watch over or guard and in the present tense indicates they were to be continually watching to assure that the disciples did not steal Jesus' body (cf Mt 27:62-66+). Brave soldiers shook at the presence of the divine messenger. The verb shook (seio) is the root of earthquake in Mt 28:2, so we might say the guards had a personal earthquake and "quaked" with fear (phobos) at the supernatural sight of this dazzling male (him - angels are always masculine). In the Bible fear was the common reaction when a supernatural figure invaded the natural realm! THOUGHT - As an aside, imagine the quaking reaction unsaved Christ rejecting sinners will have one day when they face the Judge of all mankind at the Great White Throne judgment! (Rev 20:11-15+).
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Utley - He is going ahead of you into Galilee" Jesus had told them He would meet them on a mountain in Galilee (cf. Mt. 26:32, 28:7, 10; 1Co 15:6). This was a way to assert His resurrection and give them hope. He had a final message for them (cf. Mt. 28:18-20; Lk 24:46-47; Acts 1:8). Disciples (3101) mathetes from manthano = to learn which Vine says is "from a root math, indicating thought accompanied by endeavor". Gives us our English = "mathematics" - see matheteuo) describes a person who learns from another by instruction, whether formal or informal. Another sources says mathetes is from from math- which speaks of "mental effort that thinks something through" and thus describes is a learner; a follower who learns the doctrines and the lifestyle of the one they follow. Discipleship includes the idea of one who intentionally learns by inquiry and observation (cf inductive Bible study) and thus mathetes is more than a mere pupil. A mathetes describes an adherent of a teacher. As discussed below mathetes itself has no spiritual connotation, and it is used of superficial followers of Jesus as well as of genuine believers. The Lord calls everyone to grow as a disciple (a learner of Christ; cf. also Mt 11:29,30+), one who lives in faith, who lives in and by His Word in the power of the Holy Spirit. Note in the Great Commission that the implication is that the disciple is not just a hearer and a learner from another, but is a doer of what he learns for Mt 28:20+ says "teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” NIDNTT - (EXCERPT FROM 8 PAGE DISCUSSION OF MATHETES) - A man is called a mathētēs when he binds himself to someone else in order to acquire his practical and theoretical knowledge. He may be an apprentice in a trade, a student of medicine, or a member of a philosophical school. One can only be a mathētēs in the company of a didaskalos, a master or teacher, to whom the mathētēs since the days of the Sophists generally had to pay a fee. An obvious exception to this is when mathētēs refers to spiritual dependence on a thinker long since dead. Socrates never wanted to have any mathētēs and never regarded himself as a didaskalos… It is used to indicate total attachment to someone in discipleship (Ed: But see distinction below between a true disciple and a pseudo-disciple of Jesus). The secular Gk. usage of the word in the sense of apprentice, pupil or student is not found… Mathētēs in Jn. is often simply a term for “Christian” (Jn. 8:31+; Jn 13:35+; Jn 15:8+)… mathētēs has the general sense of “Christian”, one who believes in Jesus. (See online 8 page article on Mathetes in the New International Dictionary Of New Testament Theology, volume 1, page 490) Ralph Earle - As followers of Jesus we are to be, first of all, learners. We are to learn from Him by listening to Him, learn the truth that will set us free (John 8:32+) and keep us from error. But we are also to learn from Him by looking at Him‑ learn how to live a life of beauty and blessing. (BORROW Word Meanings in the New Testament) William
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Utley - Fear and great joy characterize the first resurrection encounters. The spiritual realm breaking into physical reality also caused fear (which was to cease, cf. Matt. 28:10, but the great joy would continue), but this time it was the message of the risen Christ which brought "great joy" and still does! They ran to report it. This is the same thrust as Matt. 28:19-20. The followers must go and tell. Matthew 28:9 And behold, Jesus met them and greeted them. And they came up and took hold of His feet and worshiped Him. KJV Matthew 28:9 And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him. BGT Matthew 28:9 καὶ ἰδοὺ Ἰησοῦς ὑπήντησεν αὐταῖς λέγων· χαίρετε. αἱ δὲ προσελθοῦσαι ἐκράτησαν αὐτοῦ τοὺς πόδας καὶ προσεκύνησαν αὐτῷ. NET Matthew 28:9 But Jesus met them, saying, "Greetings!" They came to him, held on to his feet and worshiped him. CSB Matthew 28:9 Just then Jesus met them and said, "Good morning!" They came up, took hold of His feet, and worshiped Him. ESV Matthew 28:9 And behold, Jesus met them and said, "Greetings!" And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshiped him. NIV Matthew 28:9 Suddenly Jesus met them. "Greetings," he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. NLT Matthew 28:9 And as they went, Jesus met them and greeted them. And they ran to him, grasped his feet, and worshiped him. NRS Matthew 28:9 Suddenly Jesus met them and said, "Greetings!" And they came to him, took hold of his feet, and worshiped him. NJB Matthew 28:9 And suddenly, coming to meet them, was Jesus. 'Greetings,' he said. And the women came up to him and, clasping his feet, they did him homage. NAB Matthew 28:9 And behold, Jesus met them on their way and greeted them. They approached, embraced his feet, and did him homage. YLT Matthew 28:9 and as they were going to tell to his disciples, then lo, Jesus met them, saying, 'Hail!' and they having come near, laid hold of his feet, and did bow to him. MIT Matthew 28:9 Look: Jesus met them saying, "Rejoice!" When they approached him, they grabbed his feet and prostrated themselves before him. as: Isa 64:5 Mk 16:9,10 Jn 20:14-16 All hail: Lu 1:28 Jn 20:19 2Co 13:11 *Gr: and held: Song 3:3,4 Lu 7:38 Jn 12:3 20:17 Rev 3:9 worshipped: Mt 28:17 14:33 Lu 24:52 Jn 20:28 Rev 5:11-14 Matthew 28 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries THE CONSUMMATE TRUTH THAT THE TOMB WAS EMPTY And behold (idou in Mt 28:2, 7, 9, 20), Jesus met (hupantao) them and greeted them (Saying "Greetings!" or "Hail" or "Rejoice" or "Be glad") - This use of behold (idou) drawing attention to the next incredible encounter is almost an understatement! He met them FACE TO FACE as they were running. These women were last at the cross, first at the tomb and now first to see our risen Lord. What an indescribable blessing had been bestowed on them for their loyalty and faithfulness (a lesson to all of us)! If they had great joy in Mt 28:9, imagine their indescribable joy at being blessed with this face to face encounter with the Living Lord! PRINCIPLE: "It is when we are obeying God's Word that He comes to us." -- Warren Wiersbe Jesus greeted them and they immediately recognized His voice, for as Jesus said in John 10:4+ His sheep "know His voice." Greeted (chairo) in the common vernacular meant something like "Good morning," and was a common greeting in this culture. It is amazing that the risen Lord choose to greet them with such a casual, ordinary greeting. After all He had just conquered sin and death and here He greets the women "with warm, informal tenderness." He would soon ascend (40 days) to take His rightful place as their (our) great High Priest and yet with His tender greeting is a reminder that "we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses." (Heb 4:15+) As
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Utley points out that the Great Commission "was given on at least three different occasions. (1) upper room, resurrection evening (cf. Luke 24:46-47; John 20:21); (2) on a mountain in Galilee (cf. Matthew 28); (3) on the Mount of Olives just before the ascension (cf. Acts 1:8) Stephen Charnock - Mt 28:16, 18, 19. The eleven disciples went … into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them.… Jesus came and spake unto them saying … Go ye and teach all nations. The considerable actions in the world have usually very small beginnings. Of a few letters, how many thousand words are made! of ten figures, how many thousand Numbersers! A point is the beginning of all geometry. A little stone flung into a pond makes a little circle, then a greater, till it enlarges itself to both the sides. So from small beginnings God doth cause an efflux through the whole world. Authority (1849) exousia from éxesti = it is permitted, it is lawful) means the power to do something and was a technical term used in the law courts, of a legal right. Exousia refers to the freedom and right to speak and act as one pleases. "Authority or right is the dominant meaning (of exousia) in the New Testament." (Vincent) Exousía refers to delegated authority and combines the idea of the "right and the might", these attributes having been granted to someone. Exousia is an important term in the Gospels. Many conflicts in Jesus' life and ministry turn on debates about authority or the idea that Jesus taught with an unparalleled authority (Mt 7:29; 8:9; 9:6, 8; Mt 21:23-27; Mt 28:18; Mk 1:22, 27; 2:10; 3:15; 11:28-33; Lk 4:32, 36; 5:24; 7:8; 20:2-8). See also Utley's SPECIAL TOPIC: AUTHORITY (exousia). Friberg - authority, right, power; (1) as denoting the power of decision making, especially as the unlimited possibility of action proper to God authority, power (Acts 1.7); (2) as denoting God's power displayed through the sphere of nature power, authority ( Rev 9.10, 19); (3) as denoting limited authority to act, given to Satan in his sphere of dominion power, sphere of power, dominion (Acts 26.18); (4) as Jesus' divinely given and unrestricted exercise of freedom to act power, authority ( Jn 10.18); (5) as authority imparted to a community to act in ordering relationships within it right, control, authority (2Co 13.10 ); (6) as those in whom authority for ruling rests, both supernatural and human, especially in the plural officials, authorities, dignitaries, (the) government (Col 1.16); (7) 1Co 11.10 variously interpreted, including (a) a woman ought to have authority over her own head (to unveil) and (b) a woman ought to have (a sign or symbol of) authority on her head (a head-covering, pointing to the authority of her husband) (BORROW Analytical Lexicon page 156) W E Vine explains that exousía evolved "from the meaning of "leave or permission" or "liberty of doing as one pleases" and passed to that of "the ability or strength with which one is endued," then to that of the "power of authority," the right to exercise power or "the power of rule or government," the power of one whose will and commands must be obeyed by others. (Vine's Expository Dictionary of Old Testament and New Testament Words)
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Utley - This is the Great Commission—not the Great Option (ED: or the Great Omission or the Great Confusion!) Make disciples This is an AORIST ACTIVE IMPERATIVE. The term "disciples" meant "learners." The Bible does not emphasize decisions, but lifestyle faith. The key to evangelism is discipleship. However, discipleship must start with a repentant faith profession and continue in the same way unto obedience and perseverance. Of all the nations must have been a shocking statement to the Jews, but it follows Dan. 7:14, which speaks of a universal, eternal kingdom (cf. Revelation 5). This is a reversal of Jesus' previous orders (cf. Mt. 10:5-6). Notice the number of times that the inclusive "all" appears in this paragraph. Baptizing is a PRESENT ACTIVE PARTICIPLE used as an IMPERATIVE. (ED: BAPTISM IS STRICTLY SPEAKING NOT COMMANDED, BUT IT IS CLEARLY OUR LORD'S DESIRE FOR HIS DISCIPLES AND THUS CALLS FOR OBEDIENCE TO HIS WORDS.) This is balanced with "teach" (Mt 28:20). The two purposes of the Church are evangelism and discipleship. They are two sides of one coin. They cannot and must not be separated! In the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit" This three-Person formula may reflect Isa. 42:1. Notice "in the name" is SINGULAR. The name of God is Triune (cf. Matt. 3:16-17; John 14:26; Acts 2:32-33, 38-39; Rom. 1:4-5; 5:1,5; 8:1-4, 8-10; 1 Cor. 12:4-6; 2 Cor. 1:21; 13:14;Gal. 4:4-6; Eph. 1:3-14, 17; 2:18; 3:14-17; 4:4-6; 1 Thess. 1:2-5; 2 Thess. 2:13; Titus 3:4-6; 1 Pet. 1:2; Jude 20-21). Make disciples (3100) matheteuo verb form of mathetes = disciple) means basically to become instructed in the ways or teachings of a specific teacher. Louw-Nida says the idea is "to be a follower or a disciple of someone, in the sense of adhering to the teachings or instructions of a leader and in promoting the cause of such a leader." Matheteuo is used in two senses (1) Intransitively, it means to be or to become a disciple, pupil or follower of another (Mt 27:57+) and thus to follow his precepts and instruction. "To be a disciple or follower of another’s doctrine." (Zodhiates) (2) Transitively, matheteuo means to make a disciple of someone, to make one a follower, to cause one to be a pupil, to teach or instruct them. BDAG = "to cause one to be a pupil." (Mt 28:19+, Acts 14:21+). Spiros Zodhiates adds "Mathēteúō must be distinguished from the verb mathéō (n.f.) or manthano (3129) which simply mean to learn without any attachment to the teacher who teaches. Mathēteúō means not only to learn, but to become attached to one’s teacher and to become his follower in doctrine and conduct of life. It is really not sufficient to translate this verb as “learn” but as “making a disciple,” in the NT sense of mathētḗs." (BORROW The Complete Word Study Dictionary: New Testament) A Chinese Proverb is very apropos regarding Jesus call to His disciples to go and make disciples - "Give a man a fish, and he eats for a day; teach him to fish, and he eats for the rest of his life." New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology - This online resource has 14 pages on the TOPIC OF DISCIPLE. Here is a brief excerpt from this in depth discussion... Disciple, Follow, Imitate, After - Men are dependent upon one another and their lives are shaped by each other in many ways. Sometimes it is through a casual relationship, an interested companion or hanger-on. But it may be the more lasting relationship of a pupil or disciple to his master or teacher. In the NT, the words connected with discipleship are applied chiefly to the followers of Jesus and describe the life of faith. akoloutheo (follow) denotes the action of a man answering the call of Jesus whose whole life is redirected in obedience. A mathetes (disciple) is one who has heard the call of Jesus and joins him. mimeomai (imitate) can be distinguished, in so far as it mainly emphasizes the nature of a particular kind of behaviour, modelled on someone else. The prep. opiso (after) is characteristic of the call to follow Jesus. Matheteuo - 4x - Matt. 13:52; Matt. 27:57; Matt. 28:19; Acts 14:21 Hudson Taylor - When Hudson Taylor was director of the China Inland Mission, he often interviewed candidates for the mission field. On one occasion, he met with a group of applicants to determine their motivations for service. “And why do you wish to go as a foreign missionary?” he asked one. “I want to go because Christ has commanded us to go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature,” was the reply. Another said, “I want to go because millions are perishing without Christ.” Others gave different answers. Then Hudson Taylor said, “All of these motives, however good, will fail you in times of testings, trials, tribulations, and possible death. There is but one motive that will sustain you in trial and testing; namely, the love of Christ.” A missionary in Africa was once asked if he really liked what he was doing. His response was shocking. “Do I like this work?” he said. “No. My wife and I do not like dirt. We have reasonable refined sensibilities. We do not like crawling into vile huts through goat refuse. But is a man to do nothing for Christ he does not like? God pity him, if not. Liking or disliking has nothing to do with it. We have orders to ‘Go,’ and we go. Love constrains us.” Reaching Others for Jesus Go and make disciples of all nations. Matthew 28:19 Today's Scripture & Insight : Matthew 28:16–20 A decade ago, they didn’t know the name of Jesus. Hidden in the mountains of Mindanao in the Philippines, the Banwaon people had little contact with the outside world. A trip for supplies could take two days, requiring an arduous hike over rugged terrain. The world took no notice of them. Then a mission group reached out, shuttling people in and out of the region via helicopter. This gained the Banwaon access to needed supplies, crucial medical help, and an awareness of the larger world. It also introduced them to Jesus. Now, instead of singing to the spirits, they chant their traditional tribal songs with new words that praise the one true God. Mission aviation established the critical link. When Jesus returned to His heavenly Father, He gave His disciples these instructions: “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19). That command still stands. Who are the hardest-to-reach people in your community? In what ways can you tell them about Jesus? Father, please use me as You see fit in order that ________ might turn to You in faith. I Wish You Knew My Jesus We have found the Messiah. — John 1:41 Today's Scripture : Matthew 28:16-20 When a missionary read from the Bible to people in a remote village in South America, they were hearing about Jesus for the first time. After the man finished reading, a villager asked, “Do you know the Man in the Book?” The missionary assured him that he did. Later, the missionary recounted the story to a friend. He said, “Thank God, I did know the Man in the Book. I knew Him as my Lord and Savior. And I was able to introduce Him to these people who had never experienced His love and forgiveness.” The desire of a believer for those who don’t know Christ as their Savior is expressed in this song written by Mildred L. Dillon: I wish you knew my Jesus And loved Him as I do, For if you knew my Jesus, Then you would love Him too. He gave His life at Calvary, The sacrifice for you; If you’ll receive my Jesus, Then you will love Him too. © 1942 William S. Dillon If your Christianity is worth having, it's worth sharing. Unchanged Orders You shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, . . . and to the end of the earth. — Acts 1:8 Today's Scripture : Matthew 28:16-20 The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, DC, has a guard 24 hours a day. Every hour on the hour, 365 days a year, a new soldier reports for duty. When the new guard arrives, he receives his orders from the one who is leaving. The words are always the same: “Orders Remain Unchanged.” The same could be said of the orders that Jesus gave to His disciples. Just before He ascended to heaven, He told His followers, “You shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8). He also said, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations” (Matthew 28:19). From that day to this day, Christian to Christian, generation to generation, the good news of Jesus Christ has been proclaimed. We too must tell others that He is the Son of God, that He died to pay the penalty for our sins, and that salvation is granted to all who put their faith in Him. Then, as we fulfill our duties and disciple new believers, we are to pass on the orders to evangelize the lost. You have called us, Lord, to witness— Called to speak of Your dear Son; Holy Spirit, grant discernment; Lead us to some seeking one. —DJD Keep the faith—but not to yourself. Widening Your Perspective Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations. —Matthew 28:19 Today's Scripture : Matthew 28:16-20 A missionary and I were invited to lunch with David, a man in his late seventies who generously supported the missionary’s ministry. David was not able to visit the missionary’s country, but as he gave thanks for the food, he prayed with complete ease for the people, places, and situations there. Having prayed regularly for that ministry, he had no trouble mentioning specifics. David had a perspective on missions that extended beyond his own country of Singapore. Our Lord Jesus commanded us to have a worldwide perspective on missions. When He said, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, . . . teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you” (Matt. 28:19-20), He was not asking us to buy an around-the-world ticket to do His bidding. We may not have the opportunity to travel much beyond our own birthplace, but we can be involved with what’s going on in the world without leaving our hometown. A Prayer: Lord, widen my world. I want to be a part of the work You are doing. Give me eyes to see as You see, hands to serve others, and a heart to share Your gospel. Amen. If you look through the eyes of Jesus, you’ll see a needy world. The Empty Bed Go and make disciples of all nations. Matthew 28:19 Today's Scripture & Insight : Matthew 28:16–20 I was eager to return to St. James Infirmary in Montego Bay, Jamaica, and reconnect with Rendell, who two years earlier had learned about Jesus’s love for him. Evie, a teenager in the high school choir I travel with each spring, had read Scripture with Rendell and explained the gospel, and he personally received Jesus as his Savior. When I entered the men’s section of the home and looked toward Rendell’s bed, however, I found it was empty. I went to the nurse’s station, and was told what I didn’t want to hear. He had passed away—just five days before we arrived. Through tears, I texted Evie the sad news. Her response was simple: “Rendell is celebrating with Jesus.” Later she said, “It’s a good thing we told him about Jesus when we did.” Her words reminded me of the importance of being ready to lovingly share with others the hope we have in Christ. No, it’s not always easy to proclaim the gospel message about the One who will be with us always (Matthew 28:20), but when we think about the difference it made for us and for people like Rendell, perhaps we’ll be encouraged to be even more ready to “make disciples” wherever we go (v. 19). What are some things you can do to introduce people to Jesus today? As you share your faith, how does it encourage you to know Jesus is “with you always” (Matthew 28:20)? God, we know that people need You. Help us to overcome our fear of telling others about You. Opening Doors Therefore go and make disciples of all nations. Matthew 28:19 Today's Scripture & Insight : Matthew 28:16-20 Charlie Sifford is an important name in American sports. He became the first African-American playing member of the Professional Golfers Association (PGA) Tour, joining a sport that, until 1961, had a “whites only” clause in its by-laws. Enduring racial injustice and harassment, Sifford earned his place at the game’s highest level, won two tournaments, and in 2004 was the first African-American inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame. Charlie Sifford opened the doors of professional golf for players of all ethnicities. Opening doors is also a theme at the heart of the gospel mission. Jesus said, “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” (Matt. 28:19-20). The word nations (v. 19) is from the Greek word ethnos, which is also the source of the word ethnic. In other words, “Go and make disciples of all ethnicities.” Jesus’ work on the cross opened the way to the Father for everyone. Lord, help me to be sensitive to others I meet today. Give me the words to tell others about You. Jesus opened the doors of salvation to all who will believe. Laundry Day Go, then, to all peoples everywhere and make them my disciples. Matthew 28:19 gnt Today's Scripture & Insight : Matthew 28:16–20 Driving through a low-income area near his church, Colorado pastor Chad Graham started praying for his “neighbors.” When he noticed a small laundromat, he stopped to take a look inside and found it filled with customers. One asked Graham for a spare coin to operate the clothes dryer. That small request inspired a weekly “Laundry Day” sponsored by Graham’s church. Members donate coins and soap to the laundromat, pray with customers, and support the owner of the laundry facility. Their neighborhood outreach, which dares to include a laundromat, reflects Jesus’ Great Commission to His disciples. As He said, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Go, then, to all peoples everywhere and make them my disciples: baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:18–19 gnt). His Holy Spirit’s powerful presence enables “everywhere” outreach, including even a laundromat. Indeed, we don’t go alone. As Jesus promised, “I will be with you always, to the end of the age” (v. 20 gnt). Pastor Chad experienced that truth after praying at the laundromat for a customer named Jeff who is battling cancer. As Chad reported, “When we opened our eyes, every customer in the room was praying with us, hands stretched out toward Jeff. It was one of the most sacred moments I have experienced as a pastor.” Where can you go in your neighborhood today to proclaim Christ? How could His powerful presence enable you? Jesus, enable me to proclaim Your good news today—everywhere. GET ON WITH IT! - A college choir was all set to present its package of music in a large church. The program of sacred song was to be carried live by a local radio station. When everything appeared to be ready, the announcer made his final introduction and waited for the choir director to begin. One of the tenors was not ready, however, so the leader refused to raise his baton. All the time, nothing but silence was being broadcast. Growing very nervous, the announcer, forgetting that his microphone was still on and that he could be heard in the church and on the radio, said in exasperation, "Get on with it, you old goat!" Later in the week, the radio station got a letter from one of its listeners -- a man who had tuned in to listen to the music from the comfort of his easy chair. When he heard "Get on with it, you old goat!" he took the message personally. He had been doing nothing to further God's work, and this startling message was enough to convince him and get him going again. Revive us, Lord! Is zeal abating While harvest fields are vast and white? Revive us, Lord -- the world is waiting! Equip Thy church to spread the light. -Head It's what you're doing today that counts, not what you're going to do tomorrow. While speaking to the Radio Bible Class staff at a chapel service, John De Vries of Bibles For India told what might have happened when Jesus entered heaven immediately following His ascension. The angels, rejoicing that Christ's mission on earth had been completed, gathered to welcome Him home. They were eager to know who would have the privilege of proclaiming to the world the good news that Christ had been born, had lived, had died, and had risen from the dead to provide salvation from sin. In fact, the angels were hoping they themselves would be given the honor. So they were greatly disappointed and amazed when Jesus looked down to earth and pointed to the tiny group of followers He had just left behind. "Those are the ones I want to be My witnesses," Jesus announced. "I have given to them the commission to go into all the world and preach the gospel. They have experienced the thrill and reality of redemption from sin; they are to be My messengers!" The torch of the gospel, handed to those early followers of Christ, has been passed down through the generations until today it is in our hands. The responsibility of proclaiming that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners is ours to fulfill. Our only real excuse for living in this world is to be witnesses for Jesus Christ. —Sweeting Some years ago, a very good friend of mine, Dr. E. Myers Harrison, gave a missionary message that I cannot forget. It was to a small group of people, but I will never forget the sermon. Dr. Harrison is now at home with the Lord, but he was a great servant of God and a great missionary statesman. He said that each of us as Christians must hear what God has to say. There is he command from above: "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature? (Mark 16:15). Have you heard that? I've heard people say, "But God wants our church to be different. We're not supposed to have a missionary program.? I don't believe that. I believe the command from above is given to every Christian and to every assembly that God has raised up. Then there is the cry from beneath. Remember the rich man who died and woke up in hell and begged for someone to go and tell his brothers? (see Luke 16). "I pray thee, therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father's house (for I have five brethren), that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment? (Lk 16:27,28). There is the cry from beneath. If you and I could hear the cries of people in a lost eternity right now, we'd realize how important it is to get the Gospel out. There's the command from above. Have you heard it? There's the cry from beneath. Have you heard it? Then, according to Dr. Harrison, there is the call from without. Acts 16:9 says, "Come over into Macedonia, and help us.? People around us are saying, "Please come to help us!" So much money, time and energy is being spent on routine church matters in America when there is a whole world to reach for Christ! We face so many open doors! Something Happens When Churches Pray, Warren Wiersbe, pp. 102-3 (1984) Everyone's Job - James Scudder I know of a mission board that, in their regular review of candidates for the field, asks the applying individuals how many people they have won to Christ. I asked them why they have this practice and the answer I received was very profound. The head of the group told me, "I want to know if these men are truly missionaries. If they are not willing to share their faith on their home soil, then they will not be willing to share their faith overseas." I was struck by the truth of that statement. Often, we leave the job of sharing the Gospel to those who have been ordained or appointed to do the task full-time, such as evangelists, pastors, or missionaries. However, in reading the Great Commission, I never find those specifications for the job. Never are those vocations singled out for witnessing. Every Christian is appointed by God to share his faith. The layman should have just as much of a burden as the pastor. In fact, God has put people in the layman's world that the pastor or missionary could never reach. Adoniram Judson, the great missionary to Burma, spoke this thought about sharing the Gospel, "The motto of every missionary, whether preacher, printer, or schoolmaster, ought to be 'Devoted for Life'." Are you fulfilling your responsibility to share your faith? Are you reaching the people God has put in your world? Don't leave it up to the missionary. It is your job, too. Every Christian is a missionary if only to the supermarket. A Passion for Souls - James Scudder The last spoken words that Christ uttered before He ascended to Heaven were a command to spread the gospel to the entire world. Often this is called the Great Commission. Truly dedicated Christians will heed that call and endeavor to share the good news of salvation with everyone they meet. God wants every believer to have an evangelistic spirit. We need to have a burden for the neighbor across the street or the missionary work across the world. The vehicle for evangelism is the local church. Whether it is participating in missions programs, broadcast ministries, youth programs, or other outreaches, it is our duty to support God's work. I read recently about the generosity of one particular girl who, at the young age of six, had a passion for souls. She heard a radio program about Christians in China who were in need of Bibles and told her mother she wanted to help smuggle 85 Bibles into this Communist country. With only $5 in savings, the girl encouraged her kindergarten class to give of their allowances. The kids eagerly did odd chores around the community and even asked some grownups to help with their idea. Soon, they raised $509.00, enough to send nearly 130 Bibles to China. This young girl's desire to reach the lost should be an inspiration to those of us who have fallen behind in our service. If one little kindergarten student can impact 100 souls, what kind of impact can a dedicated servant of God have? Obedience to God's command is not always convenient, but it is always profitable. Heeding the Call- James Scudder As a conservative Christian, it is easy to grow cynical about our society. As each day passes, we are witnessing the hostile takeover of ungodly values, replacing the traditional biblical beliefs that once characterized America. I wonder how much longer America can be called a "nation under God" when we continue to slaughter the innocent unborn, idolize wicked men and women, and condone immoral activity on the part of our government leaders. It is easy to get caught up in trying to reform America through political means, tying our hopes to a political movement. I can understand the concern of many Christians who try to do their part by protesting, running for office, and organizing fellow believers to take action. But, reforming America is not our real mission. I'm not saying we should withdrawal from the political process entirely. I think there is nothing worse than a Christian who refuses to take part in electing god-fearing leaders to office. Our hope, however, is not in politics. Our hope is in God. And His will for Christians is not to restore values to the nation, but to change lives by sharing the good news of the Gospel. In fact, that is the greatest path to reformation. It does no good to bring back Judeo-Christian values, if people are still dying and spending eternity in Hell. We need to stop concerning ourselves with people's way of life and start concerning ourselves with the condition of their souls. That is the real problem that needs repair. This generation of saints is going to answer for this generation of sinners. The Greatest Assignment - James Scudder Once a young man determined from boyhood that God had called him to the ministry. He had all of the qualities. He was a natural leader, he was intelligent, and was good with people. The vice-president of a large company with offices in the boy's home town had watched this boy grow up to be a fine young man. During Bible College, the boy was offered a high-salaried position with the gentleman's company after graduation. The young man respectfully declined. But, the vice-president didn't give in. He raised the salary several times, even throwing in ownership shares. Still, the young man insisted on becoming a minister. Finally, the president of the company went to him. "Isn't the salary big enough?" he asked. "Yes," the young man replied thoughtfully, "the salary is big enough, but the job isn't." There is no job with greater importance than that of preaching the Gospel. In fact, it is so important God commanded everyone to do it. But, many Christians feel that God only expects preachers to share the message. They are content to comfortably live their lives while their preacher does all of the work in the church. God expects every Christian to participate. Every member of the church from the laymen, to the songleader should be active in the church. Whether it is passing out Gospel tracts, sharing with your co-worker, or giving towards a foreign mission, we are all commanded to spread the Gospel. Get involved in spreading the Gospel. It is our greatest assignment. Every Christian is a missionary-if only to the supermarket. Another Far Country - Every Christian is a missionary, for all the world is a mission field. Do not think of missionaries as meaning only those witnesses abroad who have returned from Africa or Asia with pictures to show to sleepy church members. If you cannot cross the sea in person you can project yourself by prayer and provision. You can pray laborers into the harvest and you can provide for them while they are in the harvest. The smallest country church may have a worldwide ministry and the lowliest Christian may touch earth's uttermost corner. 1. "After he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavored to go" (Acts 16:10). 2. The vision, the vista, the venture. The "Lo" must be followed by the "Go." 3. Isaiah saw the King. He saw the country, "a people of unclean lips." He heard the call, "Whom shall I send?" He answered it: "Here am I, send me." The far country of the heavenlies has its counterpart in the far country of the earthlies. The mystery must be made known amidst the misery! In a cemetery at Yale University is the grave of a remarkable missionary named Hiram Bingham. As a young man, he felt impressed that the "Go" in Mark 16:15 was meant for him, and it resonated like this: "Go to the Sandwich Islands [modern Hawaii] and preach the gospel to every creature there." Arriving there in 1819, Bingham found the inhabitants with no written language. They were hardened gamblers, thieves, and alcoholics who practiced raw immorality and human sacrifice. Children were routinely killed, torture was widespread, and disease was rampant. Bingham studied the language, reduced it to writing, translated the New Testament, established schools, and taught hygiene to the people. After four years, the first native convert was baptized. A revival swept over the islands that resembled the Pentecostal days of Acts. On February 10, 1822, after preaching to huge crowds from Mark 16:15, Bingham wrote, "I discoursed on the great commission given by Christ to His disciples to proclaim His gospel in all the world, as the grand reason of our coming to them and of their attending to the message of His ambassadors." It's the Grand Reason for our lives too. PS: Hiram's son, Hiram Bingham II, also became a missionary in Hawaii. His grandson, Hiram Bingham III, was an explorer who became a U.S. Senator and the governor of Connecticut. His great-grandson, Hiram Bingham IV, became American vice-consul in Marseille, France, during World War II, and rescued Jews from the Holocaust. (My All in All - Robert J Morgan) MISSIONS - "Is it true Dr. Grenfell that you are a missionary?" a woman asked Wilfred Grenfell, a medical missionary to Labrador. Grenfell re-plied, "Is it true, madam, that you are not?" With his question, Grenfell made sure the woman understood God's top assignment. With "mission impossible" completed, Jesus left this earth, but not before giving an assignment to His agents. He had a job for them to do, but it was no secret mission. He spoke publicly about the task and never called His people private agents. He told them to clearly report what they had seen and heard to everyone everywhere. This should have been no surprise to His Jewish operatives; God told Israel in the Old Testament to tell the surrounding nations of His mighty acts. Judas, the double agent, defected early, but over five-hundred agency personnel got Christ's memo about a new mission. Peter, one of His top men, openly carried out his duties. Not fearing political intrigue, he even briefed a soldier named Cornelius about the mission (Acts 10:38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43). LET THE WHOLE WORLD HEAR! Fritz Kreisler (1875-1962), the world-famous violinist, earned a fortune with his concerts and compositions, but he generously gave most of it away. So, when he discovered an exquisite violin on one of his trips, he wasn't able to buy it. Later, having raised enough money to meet the asking price, he returned to the seller, hoping to purchase that beautiful instrument. But to his great dismay it had been sold to a collector. Kreisler made his way to the new owner's home and offered to buy the violin. The collector said it had become his prized possession and he would not sell it. Keenly disappointed, Kreisler was about to leave when he had an idea. "Could I play the instrument once more before it is consigned to silence?" he asked. Permission was granted, and the great virtuoso filled the room with such heart-moving music that the collector's emotions were deeply stirred. "I have no right to keep that to myself," he exclaimed. "It's yours, Mr. Kreisler. Take it into the world, and let people hear it." I'll tell the world how Jesus saved me And how He gave me a life brand-new; And I know that if you trust Him That all He gave me He'll give to you. -Fox Someone told you about Christ. Have you told anyone lately? QUESTION - What is the importance of Christian baptism? | GotQuestions.org WATCH VIDEO ANSWER - Christian baptism is one of two ordinances that Jesus instituted for the church. Just before His ascension, Jesus said, “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 28:19–20). These instructions specify that the church is responsible to teach Jesus’ word, make disciples, and baptize those disciples. These things are to be done everywhere (“all nations”) until “the very end of the age.” So, if for no other reason, baptism has importance because Jesus commanded it. Baptism was practiced before the founding of the church. The Jews of ancient times would baptize proselytes to signify the converts’ “cleansed” nature. John the Baptist used baptism to prepare the way of the Lord, requiring everyone, not just Gentiles, to be baptized because everyone needs repentance. However, John’s baptism, signifying repentance, is not the same as Christian baptism, as seen in Acts 18:24–26 and Acts 19:1–7. Christian baptism has a deeper significance. Baptism is to be done in the name of the Father, Son, and Spirit—this is what makes it “Christian” baptism. It is through this ordinance that a person is admitted into the fellowship of the church. When we are saved, we are “baptized” by the Spirit into the Body of Christ, which is the church. 1 Corinthians 12:13 says, “We were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.” Baptism by water is a “reenactment” of the baptism by the Spirit. Christian baptism is the means by which a person makes a public profession of faith and discipleship. In the waters of baptism, a person says, wordlessly, “I confess faith in Christ; Jesus has cleansed my soul from sin, and I now have a new life of sanctification.” Christian baptism illustrates, in dramatic style, the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. At the same time, it also illustrates our death to sin and new life in Christ. As the sinner confesses the Lord Jesus, he dies to sin (Romans 6:11) and is raised to a brand-new life (Colossians 2:12). Being submerged in the water represents death to sin, and emerging from the water represents the cleansed, holy life that follows salvation. Romans 6:4 puts it this way: “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” Very simply, baptism is an outward testimony of the inward change in a believer’s life. Christian baptism is an act of obedience to the Lord after salvation; although baptism is closely associated with salvation, it is not a requirement to be saved. The Bible shows in many places that the order of events is 1) a person believes in the Lord Jesus and 2) he is baptized. This sequence is seen in Acts 2:41, “Those who accepted [Peter’s] message were baptized” (see also Acts 16:14–15). A new believer in Jesus Christ should desire to be baptized as soon as possible. In Acts 8 Philip speaks “the good news about Jesus” to the Ethiopian eunuch, and, “as they traveled along the road, they came to some water and the eunuch said, ‘Look, here is water. What can stand in the way of my being baptized?’” (verses 35–36). Right away, they stopped the chariot, and Philip baptized the man. Baptism illustrates a believer’s identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. Everywhere the gospel is preached and people are drawn to faith in Christ, they are to be baptized. QUESTION - Should we be baptized in Jesus' name (Acts 2:38), or in the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19)? ANSWER - Acts 2:38 records the Apostle Peter’s words on the day of Pentecost, “Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’ ” This was a strong affirmation by Peter that “there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). Being baptized in the name of Jesus indicates an understanding by the person being baptized that Christ is the Savior. Christian baptism is also in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19). Being baptized in this manner simply means we are identifying ourselves with the Trinity. We belong to the Father, are saved by the Son, and indwelt by the Spirit. This is similar to how we pray in Jesus’ name (John 14:13). If we pray in the name of Jesus, we are praying with His authority and asking God the Father to act upon our prayers because we come in the name of His Son, Jesus. Being baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is being baptized in identification with them and their power over and in our lives. Jesus Himself specifically tells us to baptize “in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19). In the Book of Acts, new believers were baptized in the name of Jesus (Acts 2:38; 8:12; 8:16; 10:48; 19:5). It is, however, essentially the same thing—Jesus, the Father and the Holy Spirit are one (John 10:30; Acts 16:7). Per Jesus’ own instructions, believers should be baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, but as the book of Acts proves, baptizing in the name of Jesus is also done. The bottom line is that the name/names in which we are baptized is not as important as the recognition that baptism identifies us with the death, burial and resurrection of Christ, our Savior. We are buried with Him and risen to walk with Him in newness of life. Related Resources: What is the biblical understanding of baptism? Why should I be baptized? Should we be baptized in Jesus' name? Does the Bible teach believer’s baptism/credobaptism? What is the proper mode of baptism? Is baptism necessary for salvation? What is the symbolism of water baptism? QUESTION - What is the Great Commission? | GotQuestions.org WATCH VIDEO ANSWER - Matthew 28:19–20 contains what has come to be called the Great Commission: “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.” Jesus gave this command to the apostles shortly before He ascended into heaven, and it essentially outlines what Jesus expected the apostles and those who followed them to do in His absence. It is interesting that, in the original Greek, the only direct command in Matthew 28:19–20 is “make disciples.” The Great Commission instructs us to make disciples while we are going throughout the world. The instructions to “go,” “baptize,” and “teach” are indirect commands—participles in the original. How are we to make disciples? By baptizing them and teaching them all that Jesus commanded. “Make disciples” is the primary command of the Great Commission. “Going,” “baptizing,” and “teaching” are the means by which we fulfill the command to “make disciples.” A disciple is someone who receives instruction from another person; a Christian disciple is a baptized follower of Christ, one who believes the teaching of Christ. A disciple of Christ imitates Jesus’ example, clings to His sacrifice, believes in His resurrection, possesses the Holy Spirit, and lives to do His work. The command in the Great Commission to “make disciples” means to teach or train people to follow and obey Christ. Many understand Acts 1:8 as part of the Great Commission as well: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” The Great Commission is enabled by the power of the Holy Spirit. We are to be Christ’s witnesses, fulfilling the Great Commission in our cities (Jerusalem), in our states and countries (Judea and Samaria), and anywhere else God sends us (to the ends of the earth). Throughout the book of Acts, we see how the apostles began to fulfill the Great Commission, as outlined in Acts 1:8. First, Jerusalem is evangelized (Acts 1 — 7); then the Spirit expands the church through Judea and Samaria (Acts 8 — 12); finally, the gospel reaches into “the ends of the earth” (Acts 13 — 28). Today, we continue to act as ambassadors for Christ, and “we plead on Christ’s behalf: ‘Be reconciled to God’” (2 Corinthians 5:20, CSB). We have received a precious gift: “the faith that was once for all entrusted to God’s holy people” (Jude 1:3). Jesus’ words in the Great Commission reveal the heart of God, who desires “all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:4). The Great Commission compels us to share the good news until everyone has heard. Like the servants in Jesus’ parable, we are to be about the business of the kingdom, making disciples of all nations: “He called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come” (Luke 19:13, KJV). QUESTION - Why is making disciples important? ANSWER - The making of disciples is our Lord’s means for answering the prayer, “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name, Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:9-10). In His infinite wisdom, Jesus chose to use dedicated followers, His disciples, to carry the message of salvation to all peoples of the world. He included this as a command in His last words before His ascension to heaven: “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). Making disciples is important because it is the Lord’s chosen method of spreading the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ. During His public ministry, Jesus spent more than three years making disciples—teaching and training His chosen twelve. He gave them many convincing proofs that He was the Son of God, the promised Messiah; they believed on Him, though imperfectly. He spoke to the crowds, but often He drew the disciples aside privately to teach them the meaning of His parables and miracles. He sent them out on ministry assignments. He also taught them that soon He would be returning to His Father following His death and resurrection (Matthew 16:21; John 12:23-36, 14:2-4). Though they could not comprehend it, He made the disciples this astonishing promise: “I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in Me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father” (John 14:12). Jesus also promised to send His Spirit to be with them forever (John 14:16-17). As promised, on the Day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit came with power on the believers, who then were emboldened to speak the Good News to everyone. The remainder of the Book of Acts gives the exciting account of all that was accomplished through them. In one city the opposition said, “These who have turned the world upside down are come hither also” (Acts 17:6 KJV). Multitudes placed their faith in Jesus Christ, and they also became disciples. When strong persecution came from the false religious leaders, they dispersed to other areas and continued to obey Christ’s command. Churches were established throughout the Roman Empire, and eventually in other nations. Later, because of disciples such as Martin Luther and others, Europe was opened to the Gospel of Jesus Christ through the Reformation. Eventually, Christians emigrated to the New World to make Christ known. Though the world still is not completely evangelized, the challenge is as viable now as ever before. The command of our Lord remains – “Go and make disciples, baptizing them, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” The characteristics of a disciple may be simply stated as • one who is assured of his salvation (John 3:16) and is activated by the indwelling Holy Spirit (John 14:26-27); • one who is growing in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior (2 Peter 3:18); and • one who shares Christ’s burden for the lost souls of men and women. Jesus said, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest field” (Matthew 9:37-38). Related Resources: What is the difference between a Christian and a disciple? How can I evangelize my friends and family without pushing them away? What does it mean to truly follow Christ? Does the Bible really teach that God is a Trinity? (go to page 357) - 5 PAGE discussion by Gleason Archer God in Three Persons: The Trinity How can God be three persons, yet one God? (Systematic Theology)- Wayne Grudem Does the Bible teach the Trinity? What does the Bible teach about the Trinity? | GotQuestions.org What is the origin of the doctrine of the Trinity? | GotQuestions.org Should I care about the Trinity? Does the Trinity matter? Norman Geisler - BORROW When Cultists Ask - SEE PAGE 105 MATTHEW 28:18–20—How can three persons be God when there is only one God? MISINTERPRETATION: Matthew speaks of the “Father, Son, and Holy Spirit” as all being part of one “name.” The Jehovah’s Witnesses argue that this verse does not say “that Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are coequal or coeternal or that all are God” (Reasoning from the Scriptures, 1989, 415). Therefore this verse does not support the doctrine of the Trinity. CORRECTING THE MISINTERPRETATION: God is one in Essence, but three in Persons. God has one Nature, but three Centers of Consciousness. That is, there is only one What in God, but there are three Whos; there is one It, but three Is. This is a mystery, but not a contradiction. It would be contradictory to say God was only one person, but also was three persons, or that God is only one nature but has three natures. But to declare, as orthodox Christians do, that God is one essence, eternally revealed in three distinct persons, is not a contradiction. A grammatical analysis of Matthew 28:19 is highly revealing. The verse says: “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit” (NASB, emphasis added). The word name in Matthew 28:19 is singular in the Greek, indicating that there is one God. But there are three persons within the Godhead, each with a definite article (in the Greek language, firmly indicating distinctness)—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The verse does not say “in the names [plural] of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,” nor does it say “in the name of the Father, the name of the Son, and the name of the Holy Spirit.” Nor does it say “in the name of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit” (omitting the definite articles). It says “in the name [singular, asserting the oneness of God] of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit” (each distinct from the others as persons). This verse very clearly demonstrates the doctrine of the Trinity. Norman Geisler - BORROW When Cultists Ask - SEE PAGE 106 MATTHEW 28:19—Does this verse indicate that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are one person—Jesus Christ—as Oneness Pentecostals believe? MISINTERPRETATION: In Matthew 28:19 Jesus instructs his followers to baptize “in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” But in Acts 2:38 we find reference to baptizing “in the name of Jesus.” Putting these verses together, Oneness Pentecostals believe this means that “Jesus” is the “name” of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Because the word “name” is singular in Matthew 28:19, this must mean that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are one person—the person of Jesus Christ. CORRECTING THE MISINTERPRETATION: There is absolutely no indication in this text that Jesus was esoterically and cryptically referring to himself with the words “the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.” Oneness Pentecostals are reading something into the text that simply is not there. As noted above, Greek scholars universally recognize that the use of the definite articles before each noun (the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit) in Matthew 28:19 points to distinct persons. A study of the singular form of the word name in Scripture proves that the word does not have to refer to a single person (see, e.g., Gen. 5:2; 11:4; 48:16). Name in Matthew 28:19 (singular in the Greek) refers not to three designations or titles of one person but rather to three persons within the unity of the one God. Scripture is abundantly clear that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are distinct persons. For example, it is clear that Jesus is not the Father, for the Father sent the Son (John 3:16–17). The Father and Son love each other (John 3:35). The Father and Son speak to each other (John 11:41–42). The Father knows the Son and the Son knows the Father (Matt. 11:27). Jesus is our advocate with the Father (1 John 2:1). Moreover, it is clear that Jesus is not the Holy Spirit, for the Holy Spirit is said to be another comforter (John 14:16). Jesus sent the Holy Spirit (John 15:26). The Holy Spirit seeks to glorify Jesus (John 16:13–14). The Holy Spirit descended upon Jesus (Luke 3:22). Nor is the Father the Holy Spirit, for the Father sent the Holy Spirit (John 14:16). And the Holy Spirit intercedes with the Father on our behalf (Rom. 8:26–27). It is impossible to argue that Jesus is the Father and the Holy Spirit. Theologians throughout church history have consistently interpreted this verse as referring to the three persons of the Trinity, not to three designations or titles of the one person of Jesus Christ. It would be the height of human arrogance to suggest that all the theologians throughout church history have been wrong on this verse and only the Oneness Pentecostals understand it correctly. Norman Geisler - BORROW When Cultists Ask - SEE PAGE 107 MATTHEW 28:19—Does this text support the doctrine of the Trinity, as opposed to the conclusion of The Way International? MISINTERPRETATION: According to Victor Paul Wierwille, founder of The Way International, this verse has been corrupted from its original form and cannot be used to support the orthodox doctrine of the Trinity. He points to the fact that Eusebius, a prominent father of the early church, quoted this verse eighteen times without mention of the trinitarian formula prior to the Council of Nicea (A.D. 325)—which formally codified the doctrine of the Trinity. Only after the Council of Nicea did Eusebius include the trinitarian formula when quoting this verse. Thus, Wierwille concludes, “It would not have been difficult for scribes to insert ‘in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost,’ in place of the original ‘in my name.’ This must have been what happened” (Wierwille, 1981, 19–20). CORRECTING THE MISINTERPRETATION: The evidence supports the authenticity of this verse and its use in support of the doctrine of the Trinity. The divine authority rests in the biblical text itself, not in what any Father may or may not have said about it. Only the Bible is inspired, not the Church Fathers. But even Wierwille admits that Eusebius did use the verse to support the doctrine of the Trinity. It is understandable that he would use it for this purpose after the doctrine had been officially recognized by a general council of the Christian church as being biblical. At best Wierwille’s argument is the logical fallacy of arguing from silence. From the fact that this verse was not cited in support of the Trinity before Nicea, nothing follows, except that Eusebius had no occasion to cite it. Certainly, there is no manuscript support for Wierwille’s speculation that a scribe added the verse. The verse is not only in our earliest and best manuscripts, but it is supported by thousands of Greek manuscripts. As noted above, the text itself teaches the doctrine of the Trinity, since it refers to “the name” (singular) of “the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit” (plural). There are three in one “name” (or essence), which is what the Trinity is. Norman Geisler - BORROW When Cultists Ask - SEE PAGE 107 MATTHEW 28:19—Does “making” disciples justify the proselyting tactics of the International (“Boston”) Church of Christ? MISINTERPRETATION: Jesus told his followers to “make” disciples. According to Al Baird, an elder at Boston, “We tried to make a disciple do something rather than motivate him to do it out of his love for God and our love for him” (Baird, “A New Look at Authority,” 18). CORRECTING THE MISINTERPRETATION: According to the Scriptures, the true motivation for serving Christ is love, not fear. Paul said, “the love of Christ constrains me” (2 Cor. 5:14 NKJV). John adds that “perfect love casts out all fear” (1 John 4:18). In the context of Jesus’ command in Matthew, “make disciples” does not imply force. A disciple is one who learns from another, who attaches himself or herself to a discipler and becomes a follower in doctrine and conduct of life. The one who disciples helps to shape the whole life of his or her disciple and produce Christlikeness. But nowhere does Jesus imply or the Bible approve of using force or fear as a means of producing change in the life of the disciple. Changes should be made by nurture and development (Heb. 5:13–14; 1 Peter 2:2), not by control of the disciple’s life. It is incorrect to attempt to directly orchestrate change in the disciple’s life; the correct approach seeks to facilitate a relationship with Jesus, so that Jesus himself can produce the change in accordance with the desire of his discipl RELATED HYMNS All Praise Be to God! (Holme) Assembled at Thy Great Command Baptized into Thy Name Most Holy Blest Trinity, from Mortal Sight Bringing the World to Christ Carry the Tidings Co-Laborers Commissioned by the Great I AM Disciples of All Nations Endless Line of Splendor, An From Greenland’s Icy Mountains Go and Tell (Miles) Go Evangelize the Nations Go Forth at Christ’s Command Go, Messenger of Christ, Proclaim Go, Messenger of Peace and Love Go On! Go, Preach My Gospel Go Tell the Story Go, Ye Heralds of Salvation Go Ye into All the World (McGranahan) Go, Ye Messengers of God Have You Heard the Sobbing? Heralds of Light It Must Be Told King’s Call, The Last Command, The Let Us Send the Gospel Message Mission Hymn, A Missionary Band, The Now, Lord, Thy Chosen Heralds Bless O Father, Bless the Children O Glorious Easter Day O Zion, Haste O’er Continent and Ocean Oft Has My Youthful Mind Been Led Oh, May the Days of Childhood Over the Seas Plaintive Plea, A Praise God the Father Rites Cannot Change the Heart Sinners, Obey the Gospel Word Souls in Death and Darkness Lying Sound, Sound the Truth Abroad Speed Away Speed the Light (Hoffman) Speed Thy Servants, Savior Tell It Out (1) Tell the Whole Wide World Thee We Worship ’Twas the Commission of Our Lord We Are but a Band of Children We’ve a Story to Tell to the Nations Wide the Compass of the World With Thine Own Pity, Savior, See Within the Church’s Sacred Fold World Must Be Taken, The Yes, My Native Land, I Love Thee Matthew 28:20 teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” KJV Matthew 28:20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. BGT Matthew 28:20 διδάσκοντες αὐτοὺς τηρεῖν πάντα ὅσα ἐνετειλάμην ὑμῖν· καὶ ἰδοὺ ἐγὼ μεθ᾽ ὑμῶν εἰμι πάσας τὰς ἡμέρας ἕως τῆς συντελείας τοῦ αἰῶνος. NET Matthew 28:20 teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age." CSB Matthew 28:20 teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age." ESV Matthew 28:20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." NIV Matthew 28:20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." NLT Matthew 28:20 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." NRS Matthew 28:20 and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age." NJB Matthew 28:20 and teach them to observe all the commands I gave you. And look, I am with you always; yes, to the end of time.' NAB Matthew 28:20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age." YLT Matthew 28:20 teaching them to observe all, whatever I did command you,) and lo, I am with you all the days -- till the full end of the age.' MIT Matthew 28:20 Teach them to keep everything I commanded you to do. Understand this: I am with you every day until the consummation of the age!" teaching them: Mt 7:24-27 De 5:32 12:32 Ac 2:42 20:20,21,27 1Co 11:2,23 14:37 Eph 4:11-17,20-32 Col 1:28 1Th 4:1,2 2Th 3:6-12 1Ti 6:1-4 Titus 2:1-10 1Pe 2:10-19 2Pe 1:5-11 3:2 1Jn 2:3,4 3:19-24 Rev 22:14 I am with you always: Mt 1:23 18:20 Ge 39:2,3,21 Ex 3:12 Jos 1:5 Ps 46:7,11 Isa 8:8-10 Isa 41:10 Mk 16:20 Jn 14:18-23 Ac 18:9,10 2Ti 4:17 Rev 22:21 Matthew 28 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: Romans 6:17+ But thanks be to God that though you were slaves of sin, you became obedient from the heart to that form of teaching to which you were committed, TEACHING DISCIPLES TO OBEY Teaching (didasko - present tense - continually teaching) them (DISCIPLES) to observe (tereo - present tense - to continually obey) all that I commanded (entellomai) you - Teaching is a critical component of heeding Jesus' command to make disciples (Mt 28:19). In other words, making disciples is not just meeting once a week to see how you are doing or how you are feeling, but meeting to give out and imbibe the pure milk of the word, for it is ONLY by so doing that one can grow in respect to their salvation (aka progressive sanctification)(1Pe 2:2+). In short, no "pure milk," no spiritual growth! As Paul taught the saints at Corinth "we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror (PURE MILK OF THE WORD) the glory of the Lord, are (present tense - continually) being transformed into the same image (CHRISTLIKENESS) from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit." (2Co 3:18+) THOUGHT - Dear follower of Christ, the preceding discussion on the pivotal role of teaching and growing in Christlikeness begs a serious question. Are you daily in the Word of God, by which you are nourishing your spiritual life (Mt 4:4+)? If you are not daily in God's Word, then you can mark it down -- you are not growing in grace and the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (2Pe 3:18+)! Furthermore, you are making yourself vulnerable to spiritual attacks (which are incessant) from the world, the flesh and the devil and you are in danger of suffering spiritual injury to your heart and soul (cf 1Pe 2:11b+, Pr 4:23+ where "watch over" is literally a command to place a guard over your heart!). "Do not be deceived (present imperative with a negative see our need to depend on the Holy Spirit to obey), my beloved brethren." (Jas 1:16+) Teaching (didasko) means to teach the disciple in such a way that the will of the student becomes conformed to the teaching taught So the teacher teaches in such a way that as the student is taught, he/she now changes his/her mind saying in essence ''I won't do it this way, but I will do it this way because I've learned this doctrine or this teaching.'' Doctrine determines direction of our behavior--conformed to world or to God? (cf Ro 12:1+) Teaching that Scripture finds significant is not that which gives information alone but which produces (Spirit enabled) transformation (2 Cor 3:18+), in which disciples are molded into men and women who will then live out the truth taught and "caught" in responsive obedience to God's will. This is our high and holy privilege as His disciples...to "reproduce" ourselves, making disciples (learners) who seek to live supernaturally (enabled by the Spirit - Eph 5:18+) in loving obedience to the will of our Father Who art in Heaven. All that I commanded - In other words, we are to disciple men and women using the whole counsel of God's Word. As Paul wrote "All (WHOLE COUNSEL OF) Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; 17 so that the man of God (THE DISCIPLE) may be adequate, equipped for every good work." (2Ti 3:16-17+) Bob Utley - teaching them" This is a PRESENT ACTIVE PARTICIPLE used as an IMPERATIVE. Notice that "what we teach" is not simply facts about Jesus, but obedience to all of His teachings. Christian maturity involves (1) a repentant faith profession, (2) a life of Christlike living (ED: ENABLED BY HIS SPIRIT AND WORD); (3) a growing doctrinal understanding (ED: CP PROGRESSIVE SANCTIFICATION). The ''I AM'' is with us at ALL TIMES. And lo (BEHOLD - idou in Mt 28:2, 7, 9, 20), I am with you always, even to the end of the age - How wonderful is it that Matthew begins with Immanuel (God with us - Mt 1:23+) and ends with reiteration of this encouraging truth! It is notable that Jesus does not say "I WILL" (as if this was something to be fulfilled in the future), but "I AM" where Egō eimi is in the present tense signifying that He is right now and forever (continually) with us. The practical implication of Jesus' promise to be with us always is that as we go forth to make disciples, we do so not as "lone ranger" Christians, but as men and women accompanied by the Master Himself. We go with the enabling, supernatural power supplied by His gift of the indwelling Spirit of Christ. In short, we make disciples in His power, not our power and for His glory not our glory. How is He with us? His indwelling Spirit, the Spirit of Christ (Lk 24:49+, Acts 2:33+) in addition to Christ in us, "the hope (certainty) of glory." (Col 1:27+). Literally = "I with you I am" = not only a promise but an emphatic assertion = "I" is emphatic and adds strength to the assertion of Jesus' personal presence with them. David