Matthew 28:18-20

“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

      The “Majesty” of missions isn’t just about the grand scale. It is about the glorious King who commissions us. It is also about the breathtaking scope of His plan.

      These powerful words, spoken by Jesus to His disciples before His ascension, represent what we now call the Great Commission. These verses are far more than a suggestion or recommendation. They outline a magnificent vision for God’s kingdom. They also set a clear mandate for every believer.

The Incomparable Majesty of the Mission

      First, it is Rooted in Divine Authority: Verse 18 sets the stage:

“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me”

This mission isn’t based on human ambition or organizational strategy, but on the absolute sovereignty of Jesus Christ. He, the King of kings, commands it. This is not a suggestion from a well-meaning teacher, but a decree from the ultimate authority.

      These closing instructions from Jesus in Matthew’s Gospel are more than just a good idea. They serve as the marching orders for the Church until Christ returns. Let’s look at the profound majesty and the undeniable mandate embedded within these verses.

Philippians 2:9-11 – “Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

What makes Christ’s commission so majestic?

Second, it is Global in scope-Reflecting God’s Heart: “all nations.”

      In the original Greek, the word used is “ethne,” from which we get “ethnic groups.” Jesus wasn’t merely thinking of political boundaries or not merely a geographic term. It speaks of every distinct people group across the globe. The vision encompasses the entire human family in its beautiful diversity.

Revelation 7:9 – “After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.”

 This vision of redeemed people from every “nation, tribe, people, and language” illustrates the ultimate goal of the Great Commission.

      Third. Empowered by Divine Presence and Divine Partnership:

“And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

      This isn’t just a promise of spiritual comfort, but a guarantee of Christ’s active, empowering presence in the mission. We are not sent out alone; Emmanuel – God with us – goes with us. This presence assures us of supernatural power and guidance in fulfilling this mandate. This presence transforms the overwhelming into the attainable.

Hebrews 13:5b-6 – “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”

      So, we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” This promise of God’s unwavering presence gives boldness to the mission.

Stay tuned, more coming Saturday.