Embracing the Great Commission: Our Call to Action

Summary

As I walked the church property this week, I found myself praying inwardly, seeking alignment with God’s will for our church. But God gently shifted my focus outward, reminding me to pray for you—that your faith would surpass mine, that your understanding of Scripture would deepen, and that your calling would be bold. This is my heart for you: that you would reach the fullness of your faith and live out the mission Christ has given us.

We are in a season of listening to transformative conversations between God and people in Scripture. Today, we stood on the mountaintop in Matthew 28, where the risen Jesus meets his disciples. Matthew’s account is unique—he moves quickly from the empty tomb to the Great Commission, emphasizing not just the reality of the resurrection, but the urgent call to mission that flows from it. Jesus declares his authority over heaven and earth, commands us to go and make disciples of all nations, to baptize, to teach, and promises his presence with us always.

This commission is not a historical footnote; it is our present calling. The early church in Acts 13 modeled this beautifully. In prayer and fasting, they listened for the Spirit’s direction, set apart Barnabas and Saul, and sent them out. Their obedience led to the birth of countless new communities of faith. The mission was never meant to be local or comfortable—it is global, crossing every boundary, and it begins right where we are, with our neighbors and in our daily lives.

Discipleship is not a one-time event or a box to check. It is a lifelong journey of growing in obedience, rooted in community, and empowered by the Spirit. Our goal of 20,280 gospel conversations is not just a number—it is a modern expression of the Great Commission, a way for each of us to step into the story God is still writing through his church. Every conversation, every invitation, is holy ground where God can work.

As we prepare for our new series, “The Truth,” we are equipped with simple tools—invitation cards—to help us start conversations that matter. Imagine the impact if each of us stepped out in faith, trusting not in our own strength, but in the extraordinary power and presence of Jesus. He is with us, always. We are sent—not just to gather, but to go, to speak his name, and to bring hope to a searching world.

Key Takeaways

- The Great Commission is not just a command to go, but an invitation to participate in God’s ongoing mission with the authority and presence of Jesus. This means our calling is rooted in his power, not our own abilities or comfort. When we step out in obedience, we do so knowing Christ himself goes with us, making every act of faith significant. [13:30]

- Faith and doubt often coexist, even among those closest to Jesus. The disciples worshipped the risen Christ, yet some doubted—a reminder that God meets us in our humanity. Rather than disqualifying us, our questions and uncertainties can become places where Christ’s authority and presence are revealed more deeply. [12:12]

- Discipleship is a lifelong, communal journey that extends beyond conversion. Jesus calls us not just to make converts, but to nurture fully devoted followers who obey his commands. This requires ongoing teaching, accountability, and a willingness to grow together in community, never settling for spiritual stagnation. [19:38]

- The mission field is no longer distant or foreign; it is right outside our doors. In a shrinking, interconnected world, our neighborhoods, workplaces, and daily interactions are filled with opportunities for gospel conversations. Every relationship and every moment can become holy ground when we approach them with intentionality and the heart of Christ. [17:45]

- Obedience to the Spirit’s leading, as modeled by the early church in Acts 13, is the catalyst for transformation and multiplication. When we seek God together in prayer and unity, he directs our steps and empowers ordinary believers to do extraordinary things. Our modern efforts—like the 20,280 gospel conversations—are a continuation of the story God began in Acts, and we are invited to write new chapters through our faithfulness. [28:17]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[01:00] - Praying for the Church and Vision
[04:11] - Matthew’s Unique Resurrection Account
[06:10] - The Urgency of the Great Commission
[07:25] - Reading the Great Commission
[08:37] - Why Matthew Emphasizes the Commission
[11:02] - Worship and Doubt Among the Disciples
[13:30] - Jesus’ Declaration of Authority
[14:30] - The Outward Movement of “Go”
[16:14] - The True Goal: Making Disciples
[17:45] - The Global Mission Field at Our Doorstep
[18:48] - Lifelong Discipleship and Teaching
[22:45] - Acts 13: The Church Sent Out
[28:17] - Spirit-Led Mission and Obedience
[30:00] - Southlake’s Gospel Conversation Goal
[34:31] - The Four Types of Gospel Conversations
[36:09] - Writing Our Chapter in God’s Story
[37:00] - Introducing “The Truth” Series
[39:23] - Using Invitation Cards for Outreach
[41:39] - Trusting God for Extraordinary Results
[42:26] - Closing Prayer and Sending
[44:26] - Sent with Authority and Blessing
[45:21] - Speaking the Name of Jesus

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: Sent with Authority – Living the Great Commission

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### Bible Reading

Matthew 28:16-20 (ESV)
> Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Acts 13:1-4 (ESV)
> Now there were in the church at Antioch prophets and teachers, Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a lifelong friend of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off. So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia, and from there they sailed to Cyprus.

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### Observation Questions

1. In Matthew 28:17, what two responses did the disciples have when they saw the risen Jesus? ([12:12])
2. According to Jesus in Matthew 28:18-20, what are the specific actions he commands his followers to do? ([14:30])
3. In Acts 13:2-3, what did the church in Antioch do before sending out Barnabas and Saul? ([22:45])
4. The sermon mentions that the Great Commission is not just a command but also comes with a promise. What is that promise? ([20:44])

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### Interpretation Questions

1. The disciples worshipped Jesus but some doubted. What does this reveal about the nature of faith and doubt in the life of a believer? ([12:12])
2. Jesus says, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” How does this authority impact the way we approach the mission he gives us? ([13:30])
3. The early church in Acts 13 responded to the Spirit’s leading by sending out Barnabas and Saul. What does this teach us about the role of prayer and community in discerning God’s direction? ([24:12])
4. The sermon emphasizes that discipleship is a lifelong, communal journey. Why is ongoing teaching and accountability important for spiritual growth? ([19:38])

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### Application Questions

1. The pastor shared that he had been praying inwardly for himself but was reminded to pray for the church to have greater faith and boldness. Who in your life could you start praying for in this way? How might that change your perspective or actions? ([01:00])
2. The Great Commission calls us to “go” and make disciples, not just to gather. What is one practical step you can take this week to move from comfort to intentional outreach—maybe with a neighbor, coworker, or friend? ([14:30])
3. The sermon highlighted that faith and doubt can exist together. Is there an area in your faith journey where you feel both worship and doubt? How can you invite Jesus into that space? ([12:12])
4. Our church’s goal of 20,280 gospel conversations is a modern way to live out the Great Commission. What fears or hesitations do you have about starting a gospel conversation? What would help you take the next step? ([30:00])
5. The early church sought God together in prayer before sending out Barnabas and Saul. How can your small group or family become more intentional about praying for God’s direction and for opportunities to share the gospel? ([22:45])
6. The sermon mentioned using simple tools like invitation cards to start meaningful conversations. Who is one person you could invite to church or to the new series “The Truth” this week? What would make that conversation easier for you? ([39:23])
7. Jesus promises to be with us always as we go. When you think about sharing your faith, how does remembering his presence change your confidence or approach? ([20:44])

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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Ask God to give your group boldness, unity, and open doors for gospel conversations this week. Pray for the Spirit’s guidance and for hearts ready to respond to Jesus’ invitation.

Devotional

Day 1: The Urgency and Authority of the Great Commission
Jesus calls every believer to go and make disciples, not just to believe privately but to step out intentionally into the world with the authority He has given. The resurrection is not just a historical event to be celebrated, but a launching point for a life of mission, where Jesus’ command to “go” is immediate and non-optional. The authority of Christ over heaven and earth means that nothing can ultimately stand in the way of His mission, and every believer is empowered to participate, regardless of their doubts or limitations. The call is not just for pastors or leaders, but for every follower of Jesus to step into their unique mission field, trusting that Christ’s authority is enough. [07:25]

Matthew 28:16-20 (ESV)
Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Reflection: Where is God calling you to “go” this week—whether across the street, across the office, or across a cultural boundary—and how can you step out in faith, trusting in Jesus’ authority rather than your own ability?


Day 2: Discipleship Is a Lifelong, Ongoing Journey
Being a disciple of Jesus is not a one-time event or a label we wear, but a lifelong process of learning, growing, and obeying all that Jesus has commanded. The mission of the church is not just to make converts, but to nurture fully devoted followers who continually seek to know Christ more deeply and live out His teachings. This journey requires humility, community, and a willingness to keep learning, no matter how long we have been following Jesus. Discipleship never stops; it is a call to ongoing transformation and obedience, empowered by the Spirit and supported by the church family. [19:38]

Matthew 28:20 (ESV)
“…teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Reflection: What is one area of Jesus’ teaching that you have not yet fully embraced or obeyed, and how can you take a practical step this week to grow as a disciple in that area?


Day 3: The Power and Presence of Jesus in Our Mission
Jesus does not send us out alone; He promises to be with us always, empowering us through the Holy Spirit as we step into His mission. The assurance of Christ’s presence transforms our fears and doubts into courage, knowing that we are never abandoned in the work He calls us to do. This promise is not conditional or occasional—it is constant, sustaining us through every challenge and every act of obedience. As we go, share, and serve, we do so in the strength and companionship of the risen Christ, who is faithful to His word. [20:44]

Matthew 28:20 (ESV)
“…And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Reflection: In what specific situation do you need to remember and rely on Jesus’ presence with you this week, and how might that change your approach or attitude?


Day 4: The Church’s Mission Is a Communal, Spirit-Led Effort
The early church modeled a mission that was birthed in prayer, fasting, and unity, with leaders and members alike seeking God’s direction and responding in obedience together. The sending of Barnabas and Saul in Acts 13 shows that the work of the gospel is not a solo endeavor but a communal calling, where the Spirit leads, the church supports, and everyone participates in the mission. This spirit-led, prayerful approach ensures that the mission is not just about activity, but about following God’s leading and working together as one body. [24:12]

Acts 13:1-4 (ESV)
Now there were in the church at Antioch prophets and teachers, Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a lifelong friend of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off. So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia, and from there they sailed to Cyprus.

Reflection: Who in your church community can you pray with or encourage this week as you seek to discern and obey God’s mission together?


Day 5: Every Gospel Conversation Is a Seed for Disciple-Making
Every intentional conversation about Jesus—whether connecting, deepening, discerning, or inviting—has the potential to plant seeds that lead to transformed lives and new disciples. The mission field is not just overseas but right outside our doors, in our neighborhoods, workplaces, and daily interactions. Each act of obedience, no matter how small, joins the ongoing story of God’s work in the world, as ordinary believers are empowered by an extraordinary God. Our modern efforts, like the goal of 20,280 gospel conversations, are not just numbers but living testimonies of faithfulness and hope. [35:30]

Colossians 4:5-6 (ESV)
Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.

Reflection: Who is one person you can intentionally connect with or invite into a gospel conversation this week, and what step will you take to make that happen?

Quotes

Because for Matthew, it isn't just about proving Jesus is alive. It's about what the living Christ calls his people to do. He shortens the gap between the statements of he is risen and go therefore, so that the resurrection immediately launches the church into mission. [00:05:04] (26 seconds)  #ResurrectionLaunchesMission Edit Clip

It's not enough to be comfortable with his faith. It's not enough just to contemplate it in our head, like some great thinker, right? Rubbing your beard, I believe in Jesus. Jesus is saying, no, you have to go and you have to be intentional about it. And he's saying, I'm giving you all authority because guess what? When you go out into the world, not all the world is going to believe you. Not all the world is even going to like your message. But you don't have to worry about that because I have authority over everything. [00:15:08] (34 seconds)  #IntentionalFaithInAction Edit Clip

The goal of the great commission is not merely converts. Jesus is never looking like, okay, let's, let's count up how many people we've saved for Jesus. It's beautiful to look at, but that's not the goal. He says, go and make disciples. In other words, people who are fully devoted to Jesus and his ways. Let me say that again. People who are fully devoted to Jesus and his ways. [00:15:48] (34 seconds)  #DiscipleMakingNotCounting Edit Clip

If you're saying, well, I'm too old to do anything for the church, then you are dead inside. This mission never stops until we draw our last breath. That we are called to proclaim the gospel, the gospel, to grow closer to the Savior who rescued us. This is our mission. [00:19:52] (26 seconds)  #MissionNeverEnds Edit Clip

The mission that he has just given the church is not carried out in human strength alone. Jesus himself is with his people. Jesus himself is with his people. Jesus himself is with his people. Jesus himself is with his people. Thank you. Through the Holy Spirit. How empowering is it. When you come to recognize. That the risen Christ. Is with you. He's promised that. I won't be with you. Always. There's no parentheses there. It doesn't say sometimes. Maybe. When I feel like it. It doesn't say that. Because Jesus says. I will be with you always. [00:20:35] (44 seconds)  #ChristWithUsAlways Edit Clip

The Great Commission is not optional. It's the core calling for every believer. You have to understand that it's not optional. When Jesus said, follow all my commands, I want you to be honest with yourself. Just think about this in your head. Jesus said, all you have to do is follow all my commands, and people will often say, okay, Jesus, I'll do this. that. You saved me, I'll do that. And then Jesus says, okay, now I want you to go and tell the world about me. And you go, oh, it's like a swing and a miss, right? I can't do that. Go is an imperative in the Greek. It's a command. Go, tell the world about me. It's not optional for Christians. [00:30:36] (56 seconds)  #GreatCommissionCommand Edit Clip

Every gospel conversation, whether it be connect, deepen, discern, or invite, has the potential to be a disciple making machine. And here's the cool thing. I love this last point. My mind just, every conversation joins the legacy of the book of Acts. Ordinary believers empowered by an extraordinary God. For those of you who knew the book of Acts, when you read it, there's no conclusion. I just, they kind of stop writing. I believe that was intentional. I believe that we are living out the chapters of Acts. That we, the church, continue to write that story. [00:35:18] (55 seconds)  #ActsLegacyContinues Edit Clip

Every one, every single one of those 20 ,280 gospel conversations we're praying for begins with his name. His name changes atmospheres. His name heals hearts. And his name breaks chains. So as we sing, let this not be just music. It's our declaration, our prayer, and our mission. Let's speak the name of Jesus over our lives, our community, and the people we have yet to meet. Because this, this is the message we're meant to share. [00:45:01] (46 seconds)  #SpeakJesusName Edit Clip

``Church, you've heard the words of Jesus this morning, and you have been reminded of his authority, his mission, and his presence. Now go, go into your homes, go into your workplaces, go into your neighborhoods, as those who are sent. Go with courage, go with compassion, and go with the confidence that Christ is with you. You are sent. You are sent. [00:46:08] (40 seconds)  #SentWithCourage Edit Clip