Jesus knew his time on Earth would be short and others would continue his ministry and build his church. Therefore, he called men early in his ministry to who would be key players in the continuation of his ministry and the building of his church.
Disciple Commissioning Scripture
All four gospels and Acts quote Jesus commissioning his disciples to carry on his mission, each with their own emphasis:
- Matthew 28:18-20 quotes that the disciples must go preach to all the nations, baptizing them, and teaching them to observe/obey his commands. (The Great Commission)
- Mark 16:15-18 quotes Jesus as telling the disciples go into the world, preach the gospel and baptize them.
- Luke 24: 44-48 quotes emphasize that the existing scripture concerning Christ was fulfilled by Jesus and that the disciples should preach repentance and forgiveness of sins in his name to all the nations.
- John 20:19–23 quotes that just as God sent Jesus, Jesus is sending his disciples. Jesus also gives his disciples the Holy Spirit.
- Acts 1:4-8 quote Jesus telling his disciples that they will receive the Holy Spirit in a few days and that they will be his witnesses to the ends of the earth.
To meet all five commissions, followers of Jesus must:
- Preach the gospel to all nations, including
- repentance and forgiveness of sins
- Jesus fulfilled all scripture regarding Christ
- Jesus died and rose from the dead in three days
- Baptize people
- Teach people to observe/obey Jesus’ commands
Commission of Followers
Everyone has different abilities. Not everyone can preach the gospel or baptize people, but we are all required to observe/obey Jesus’ commands. If we each observe Jesus’ commands, our lives will reflect his love and faith. We also have an obligation to share the good news and ensure our children are taught to observe/obey Jesus’ commands.