The Great Commission: Embracing Jesus’ Authority and Presence

Devotional

Day 1: Jesus Has All Authority in Heaven and on Earth

In times of uncertainty and transition, it is vital to remember that Jesus possesses all authority—nothing is outside His control. No matter how chaotic or unpredictable life may seem, Jesus’ power is total and comprehensive; there is never a moment when things are “out of hand” for Him. This truth is not just a comfort but a call to trust Him fully, knowing that His hands are never tied and His authority is never diminished. Because Jesus has all power, He has a total claim on our lives, inviting us to surrender every area to Him and to rest in the assurance that He is sovereign over every circumstance. [47:55]

Matthew 28:18 (ESV)
And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.”

Reflection: What is one area of your life that feels out of control or overwhelming right now? How can you intentionally surrender that area to Jesus’ authority today, trusting that nothing is beyond His power?

Day 2: The Invitation Is for All Nations

The call to follow Jesus is radically inclusive—no one is excluded based on background, nationality, gender, age, or ability. Jesus’ command to “make disciples of all nations” was revolutionary in its time and remains a powerful reminder that the gospel is for everyone. The invitation to become a disciple is extended to all, but it also requires a genuine transformation—a change that only Christ can bring, symbolized by baptism. No matter who you are or where you come from, you are welcomed into the family of God through faith and the new life Jesus offers. [53:36]

Matthew 28:19 (ESV)
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,

Reflection: Is there someone in your life or community whom you have overlooked or assumed would not be interested in following Jesus? How can you reach out to them this week with the inclusive love and invitation of Christ?

Day 3: Obeying All That Jesus Commanded

Being a disciple of Jesus means striving to obey all of His teachings, not just the ones that come easily or feel comfortable. Each of us has commands of Jesus that we find easier to follow and others that challenge us deeply. Jesus calls His followers to a life of comprehensive obedience, empowered by grace and forgiveness when we fall short. It is important to regularly examine our hearts, read the Scriptures, and honestly consider which teachings we may be neglecting or rationalizing away, so that we can grow in wholehearted discipleship. [59:31]

Matthew 28:20a (ESV)
…teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.

Reflection: What is one specific teaching of Jesus that you tend to avoid or find difficult to obey? What practical step can you take today to begin living out that command more fully?

Day 4: Jesus Is With Us Always

Jesus’ promise to be with His followers “always, even to the end of the world” is a profound assurance, especially in seasons of transition or hardship. This presence is not just for the easy times or the beginning of our faith journey, but for every moment—especially when life is uncertain or difficult. Jesus, the one with all authority, is with you right now, whether or not you feel His presence. His faithfulness is not an introductory offer that fades, but a constant reality for every believer, giving us courage and hope no matter what we face. [01:04:17]

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

Reflection: When have you most needed to be reminded of Jesus’ presence with you? How can you intentionally acknowledge and rely on His presence in your life today, especially in a challenging area?

Day 5: God Grows Us in Transitional Moments

Transitional moments—whether personal, professional, or within the church—are often the times when God works most powerfully in our lives. These seasons can be confusing or unsettling, but they are also opportunities for growth, transformation, and deeper dependence on God. Rather than resisting or fearing change, we are invited to look for how God might be at work, shaping us and preparing us for what is next. Trusting God in these moments opens us to new possibilities and a greater experience of His faithfulness. [39:29]

Isaiah 43:19 (ESV)
Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.

Reflection: Think about a current or recent transition in your life. In what ways might God be using this season to grow you or lead you into something new? How can you open your heart to His work today?

Sermon Summary

Life is full of transitional moments—times when we move from one season to another, whether it’s a new job, a move, a change in family, or even a shift in our church community. These moments can be confusing, uncertain, and sometimes even frightening. Yet, it’s often in these in-between spaces that God does some of His most significant work in us. The disciples themselves found themselves in such a moment after Jesus’ resurrection but before His ascension. Their world had been turned upside down, and they were unsure of what the future held. Into that confusion, Jesus met them on a mountain in Galilee and gave them what we now call the Great Commission.

Jesus began by declaring that all authority in heaven and on earth had been given to Him. This is not partial or limited power—He possesses every bit of authority, and nothing is outside His control. This truth is foundational for us, especially when we feel like life is out of hand or beyond our ability to manage. Because Jesus has all power, He also has a total claim on our lives. Discipleship is not a part-time commitment; it’s an all-encompassing call to follow Him in every area.

Jesus then made it clear that His invitation is for all nations, all people, regardless of background, status, or history. Anyone can become a follower of Christ, but it requires a genuine transformation—a new life symbolized by baptism. Baptism is not just a ritual; it’s a sign of repentance, a new beginning, and a public declaration that Christ has changed us from the inside out.

Once we become followers, Jesus calls us to observe all that He has commanded—not just the parts we find easy or convenient. His teachings are comprehensive and challenging, and while we all fall short, we are called to pursue obedience in every area, relying on His grace and forgiveness when we stumble.

Finally, Jesus promises His presence—He is with us always, even to the end of the age. This is not a temporary or conditional offer; it’s a permanent reality for every believer. No matter how uncertain or difficult our transitional moments may be, we are never alone. The One who has all authority is always with us, guiding, empowering, and sustaining us.

Key Takeaways

1. Jesus’ Authority is Absolute and All-Encompassing Jesus declares that all authority in heaven and on earth belongs to Him. This means that nothing in our lives or in the world is outside His control. In times of uncertainty or transition, we can rest in the assurance that Jesus’ power is total, and He is never caught off guard or limited by circumstances. [47:16]
2. The Invitation to Discipleship is for Everyone, but Requires Transformation Jesus’ command to make disciples of all nations was revolutionary, breaking down every barrier of race, status, or background. Yet, while the invitation is universal, true discipleship requires a change of heart and life—a transformation that is symbolized by baptism and made real by Christ’s work in us. [53:36]
3. Obedience to Jesus is Comprehensive, Not Selective Following Jesus means striving to observe all that He has commanded, not just the teachings that are comfortable or convenient. Each of us has areas where obedience comes easily and others where it is a struggle, but the call is to pursue faithfulness in every aspect of life, continually seeking to align our lives with His Word. [56:54]
4. God Grows Us Most in Transitional Moments Transitional seasons—whether personal or communal—are often where God does His deepest work in us. These are times when we are most aware of our need, most open to change, and most likely to experience God’s guidance and growth. Rather than fearing these moments, we can look for how God is shaping us through them. [39:29]
5. Jesus’ Presence is Constant, Not Conditional Jesus promises to be with us always, not just at the beginning of our journey or in the good times, but through every season and challenge. His presence is not an introductory offer that fades; it is the enduring reality for every believer, providing comfort, strength, and hope no matter what we face. [64:50]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[33:14] - Overcoming Illness and Testimony Reflection
[34:31] - Family Introduction and Background
[36:12] - Early Faith and College Transformation
[38:23] - The Importance of Transitional Moments
[39:53] - Setting the Scene: Matthew 28
[42:29] - The Disciples’ Confusion and Uncertainty
[45:42] - Jesus’ Declaration of All Authority
[49:50] - Who Can Be a Disciple? All Nations
[53:36] - The Meaning and Significance of Baptism
[56:54] - The Call to Obey All Jesus’ Teachings
[61:02] - Jesus’ Promise: I Am With You Always
[64:50] - The Permanence of Jesus’ Presence
[65:47] - The Great Commission: More Than a Task
[67:11] - Invitation and Prayer

Bible Study Guide

Bible Reading

Matthew 28:16-20 (ESV) — 16 Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them.
17 And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted.
18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.
19 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,
20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Observation Questions

According to Jesus in Matthew 28:18, what kind of authority does He claim to have? How does He describe it?
Who does Jesus say can become His disciples, and what is the outward sign of this new life? ([49:50])
What does Jesus command His followers to teach new disciples to do? ([56:54])
What promise does Jesus give at the end of this passage, and how long does it last? ([01:01:02])

Interpretation Questions

The sermon described the disciples as being in a “transitional moment” after Jesus’ resurrection but before His ascension. Why might Jesus have chosen this moment to give them the Great Commission? ([39:29])
Jesus says His authority is “all-encompassing.” What does it mean for a believer’s daily life that nothing is outside of Jesus’ control? ([47:16])
The invitation to follow Jesus is for “all nations,” but the sermon says it requires a real transformation. Why is baptism such an important symbol of this change? ([53:36])
Jesus calls His followers to obey “all” His commands, not just the easy ones. Why do you think some teachings of Jesus are harder for us to follow than others? ([56:54])

Application Questions

Think about a recent or current transitional moment in your life (new job, move, family change, etc.). How have you seen God working in you during this time, or how might you look for His work now? ([39:29])
The sermon said that Jesus’ authority means He has a total claim on our lives. Is there an area of your life where you struggle to let Jesus be in control? What would it look like to surrender that area to Him this week? ([49:06])
Jesus’ invitation is for everyone, but it requires transformation. If you have been baptized, how does your life show evidence of that inner change? If you haven’t, what questions or hesitations do you have about it? ([53:36])
The call to obey all of Jesus’ teachings can feel overwhelming. What is one specific command of Jesus that you find difficult to obey? What is one step you could take this week to pursue obedience in that area? ([56:54])
The sermon mentioned that we all have “favorite” commands of Jesus that are easier for us, and others we tend to ignore. What is one teaching of Jesus you tend to overlook or rationalize away? Why do you think that is? ([58:13])
Jesus promises to be with us always, not just in the good times. When have you most needed to remember that Jesus is with you? How can you remind yourself of His presence in the week ahead? ([01:04:50])
The Great Commission is not just a task, but a description of who the church is. How can our small group better reflect being a community that welcomes all, pursues obedience, and relies on Jesus’ presence? ([01:05:47])

Sermon Clips

When I talk to my students at school, I tell them, because I'm a professor, I very rarely use the word all or every, or I very rarely use the word never, because they're normally exceptions, right? As human beings, there aren't many things in our life that we can say, all, every, never, these sorts of words that don't allow for any exceptions whatsoever. Jesus can do that. Jesus has all power, nothing excepted, no exceptions. Every bit of the power belongs to Jesus. [00:47:27] (37 seconds) #JesusInControlAlways

Now, if you're in a transitional moment right now, don't you need to know that? Whatever you're going through, whatever is coming in the future, our lives are going to be different. Jesus is risen from the dead, and he has all power. There's nothing that's out of his control. [00:48:05] (18 seconds) #HandsNeverTied

There are expressions that we use as human beings that Jesus will never use. If I have a class that gets ran bunches at school, I'll say, well, the class has gotten out of hand, or things have gotten out of hand. Jesus will never say things have gotten out of hand. They're all in...Jesus' hands. Another thing is, if there's a situation that I would like to address or like to fix, but I can't because I'm limited in some way, I'll say, well, unfortunately, our hands are tied, or my hands are tied. Jesus' hands are never tied. They were nailed one time because he allowed them to be, but Jesus' hands, they will never, ever be tied because Jesus has all power. [00:48:23] (52 seconds) #TotalAuthorityOfJesus

``Jesus' authority is comprehensive. It is total. It is all-inclusive. Now, here's the catch. Since Jesus has all power, since his power is total, that means he has a total claim on our lives. That means that discipleship, if Jesus' power is all-inclusive, that means discipleship, that means he has a total claim on our lives. That means that discipleship, if Jesus' power is all-inclusive, that means following Jesus is also going to be all-inclusive. [00:49:15] (34 seconds) #DiscipleshipIsAllIn

Who can be a disciple of Jesus? Anyone can. All nations. There's not a single, and it's not just nations, any, whether you're a disciple of Jesus or a disciple of Jesus. There's not a single male or female, whether you're young or old, whether you're specially abled or you're physically abled in a different way. There's no demographic whatsoever that can't be a follower of Jesus. All nations. [00:50:37] (31 seconds) #EveryoneCanFollowJesus

Once you are a member, what's expected of you? Jesus, again, telling his followers this in their transitional moment. This is this church that Jesus is creating. Anyone can be a member. They need to have their lives transformed by me. Once their lives are transformed by me and they're a member of this church, here's what they need to do. Verse 20, teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you. So here's our third all. So there's, Jesus has all power. All nations are eligible to join. What do people do? Once they join, this is the hard part. All things that Jesus taught. [00:56:13] (50 seconds) #JesusTeachesHighStandards

Jesus has all power. He has control over everything, and Jesus expects you to do everything that he taught. Now, this is the tough one for me. I don't know about you, but my impression is that we all have our favorite commands of Jesus that we like to obey. Then we have those other commands of Jesus that we aren't as eager to obey. That we figure out a way to reason ourselves around, well, Jesus didn't really mean to do this. He didn't really mean to love my enemy, right? Who would love their enemy? That's silly. Maybe Jesus was making another point there. [00:57:03] (42 seconds) #JesusAlwaysWithUs

But even though things are not always easy, Jesus is always with us. The Jesus, the one who has all authority in heaven and on the earth, we're still talking about that same person, the one who has all authority in heaven and on the earth, he's the one who's always with us. And how many of you could use Jesus's presence right now? I certainly could. Jesus is with us. He's with you. If you're a follower of Christ, Jesus is with you right now. He didn't say you'd always feel that he's with you, but that he is always with you. [01:03:46] (48 seconds)

Do y'all realize that all authority in heaven and on earth belongs to Jesus? Think about it. Let that simmer just for a little bit. All authority, man, everything. Now, do we realize the fact that Jesus has total authority also means that he has total claim on our lives, that we're to obey everything that Jesus taught, that we also have the promise that Jesus will always be with us? [01:06:37] (37 seconds)

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