“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son, and the Holy Ghost” (Matthew 28:19).
The Great Commission is a call of obedience to every true believer. We find three main elements in the words, “go,” “baptize,” and “teach.” We have the message of hope and truth to deliver to the lost. We can’t sit on the sidelines with it. Is it a coincidence that the first two letters of gospel are “g-o”? Once we go with the gospel, we gain opportunities to lead souls to Christ. Our work doesn’t stop there. We must teach them the importance of following the Lord in baptism.
We, ourselves, know what baptism by immersion is because someone taught us. It symbolizes our dying to the old sin nature, burying our sins, and rising to newness of life (Romans 6:4). We have been immersed into a relationship with the Godhead.
We might think our work is done after teaching about baptism. Teaching must continue. Fundamentals of the faith must be taught, so new believers will grow in Christ. If you haven’t guessed by now, I’ve been describing the phrase, “make disciples.” Where would you be today if someone hadn’t gone to you in obedience to God’s command? Making disciples is God’s plan for increasing His Kingdom. Keep the message of truth going as you deliver it to those around you.
Sue Winchester
Missouri
PRAY TOGETHER: Will you pray, “Not my will but Thine” today—regardless of your circumstances?
