Sermon Title: The Great Commission: our divine assignment the Household of God to the Inhabitants of Earth
Introduction: In our journey as the household of God, we have covered two essential aspects of our divine calling: Dominion and Love. Dominion was given to us as an expression of God’s purpose for humanity to steward and care for creation, exercising authority in alignment with His will. We then moved on to Love, recognizing it as the foundation of our faith and the unifying force that binds us together. Today, we will move forward to our third great mandate: The Great Commission. This mandate is an extension of God's love to the entire world, and it speaks not only to the Church but also to the inhabitants of Earth. As believers, we are called to embrace a biblical worldview—one that compels us to take the message of Jesus beyond our immediate community and share it with all creation.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 28:18-20 (NIV) "Then Jesus came to them and 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.'"
1. The Authority of Christ Over All Creation (Verse 18) Jesus begins by declaring, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me." This proclamation reveals that Jesus holds absolute authority over both the spiritual and physical realms. For the household of God, this means that our mission is founded on a secure and sovereign foundation. When we go out into the world, we do so under the authority of the Creator of heaven and earth. We must therefore view our mission not merely as an individual task but as an extension of God's divine rule over the entire earth. This perspective gives us confidence that the One who commissions us also governs every situation and circumstance we may face.
2. Go: A Mandate for the Household of God to Engage the Inhabitants of Earth (Verse 19) The command to "go" is a call for action—action that moves beyond the comfort of our churches and fellowships into the broader world. The Great Commission, seen from a biblical worldview, emphasizes that God’s desire is for all humanity to come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4). As members of the household of God, we are representatives of God's kingdom here on Earth, and we are called to bring the message of salvation to the inhabitants of every nation, tribe, and culture. It is a reminder that our faith cannot be contained within the four walls of our gatherings but must be shared with those around us—across our neighborhoods and to the far reaches of the world.
3. Making Disciples of All Nations: God's Vision for the Inhabitants of Earth (Verse 19) The Great Commission instructs us to "make disciples of all nations." This is more than simply converting people; it is about nurturing them into a lifelong journey of following Jesus. A biblical worldview reveals that all people, regardless of race, culture, or social status, are created in the image of God and are in need of reconciliation with their Creator. Making disciples is about helping individuals see themselves through God’s eyes and guiding them to live out His purposes. It is about transforming the inhabitants of Earth into devoted followers who reflect the character of Christ and His kingdom values in their lives.
4. Baptizing Them: Declaring a New Identity in God's Family (Verse 19) Baptism is a public declaration of faith, symbolizing a transformation from the old self to the new life in Christ. It is an act that marks an individual's inclusion into the family of God, transcending boundaries of culture, ethnicity, and nationality. As the household of God, we must ensure that new believers understand the significance of their new identity—not as citizens of this world alone, but as members of the kingdom of heaven. This act of baptism signifies a commitment to live as children of God and ambassadors of His message, bringing hope to a world in need.
5. Teaching Them to Obey: Establishing God's Principles Among the Inhabitants of Earth (Verse 20) Jesus calls us to "teach them to obey everything I have commanded you." Teaching is foundational for discipleship, and a biblical worldview requires us to ensure that the principles of God's kingdom are established in the lives of believers. We are called not just to convey information but to guide transformation. The teachings of Jesus address every area of life—how we relate to God, how we treat others, and how we steward the earth. The household of God must be a community where God's Word is taught, understood, and lived out so that the inhabitants of Earth may see God's will in action.
6. The Assurance of His Presence: God’s Presence with Us for the Sake of the World (Verse 20) Jesus concludes His commission with a promise: "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." This assurance is not only for the household of God but also a reminder to the world that God is actively involved in His creation. As we go out to fulfill our divine mandate, we are not alone—Jesus Himself is with us, empowering us through the Holy Spirit. His presence is a source of strength and guidance, enabling us to overcome challenges as we share the message of hope and redemption with all humanity.
Conclusion: The Great Commission is a mandate that speaks to both the household of God and the inhabitants of Earth. It is not an optional task; it is the very purpose for which the Church exists. As members of God's household, we are called to be ambassadors of His kingdom, sharing His love, making disciples, baptizing, and teaching others to obey His commands. This divine mandate must be carried out with a biblical worldview—one that recognizes God’s authority over all creation and His desire for all people to come to know Him.
Application:
1. Pray for Boldness: Ask God to give you courage to step out of your comfort zone and share the gospel with those who have not yet heard.
2. Identify Your Mission Field: Begin where God has placed you—your workplace, school, neighborhood, or community. Remember, every person you encounter is part of God’s desire for all humanity to be reached.
3. Build Relationships: True discipleship happens through relationships. Invest in people, listen to their stories, and be an example of Christ's love.
4. Rely on His Presence: Remember that Jesus is with you always. Trust in His authority and lean on Him as you engage in the Great Commission.
May we, as the household of God, rise to fulfill our divine mandate to the inhabitants of Earth, knowing that Jesus walks with us every step of the way.
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