The Great Commission: Teaching, Baptizing, and Making Disciples

Nov 02, 2025

Devotional

Day 1: Jesus’ Authority and the Great Commission

Jesus, having received all authority in heaven and on earth, commands His followers to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing and teaching them to obey all He has commanded. This authority is not new to Jesus as God, but is now uniquely exercised as the risen Son who mediates redemption and salvation for all humanity. Because of this, His followers are called to act with confidence, knowing that their mission is grounded in His divine power and purpose. The Great Commission is not just a suggestion but a divine mandate, rooted in the reality that Jesus is the only way to reconciliation with God, and that He entrusts His people with the responsibility to share this message with the world. [50:43]

Matthew 28:18-20 (ESV)
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: What is one specific step you can take this week to intentionally share the message of Jesus’ authority and salvation with someone in your life who may not know Him?

Day 2: Baptism—A Response of Faith and Obedience

Baptism is not merely a symbolic act or a deep internal commitment, but a response of faith and obedience that unites the believer with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. Throughout the New Testament, baptism is consistently associated with water and is presented as the moment when sins are washed away and a person is added to the church. This act is not optional or figurative, but a clear command from Jesus, demonstrated by His apostles and the early church, and is essential for entering into newness of life in Christ. [01:01:43]

Acts 8:36-39 (ESV)
And as they were going along the road they came to some water, and the eunuch said, “See, here is water! What prevents me from being baptized?” And Philip said, “If you believe with all your heart, you may.” And he replied, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.” And he commanded the chariot to stop, and they both went down into the water, Philip and the eunuch, and he baptized him. And when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord carried Philip away, and the eunuch saw him no more, and went on his way rejoicing.

Reflection: If you have been baptized, how does remembering your baptism shape your daily walk with Christ? If you have not, what questions or hesitations do you need to bring before God today?

Day 3: Teaching and Discipleship—A Lifelong Calling

Making disciples does not end at conversion or baptism; it continues as a lifelong process of teaching, learning, and growing in obedience to all that Jesus commanded. Every Christian is called to both receive and share the teachings of Christ, helping others mature in faith and equipping them to do the same. This ongoing discipleship is essential for the health and mission of the church, and it requires humility, perseverance, and a willingness to invest in others, just as Jesus invested in His followers. [01:04:17]

2 Timothy 2:2 (ESV)
And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.

Reflection: Who is one person you can encourage or help grow in their faith this week, and what practical step can you take to invest in their spiritual journey?

Day 4: The Urgency and Responsibility of Evangelism

The call to evangelism is not reserved for a select few, but is the responsibility of every believer who knows the truth of Christ. There are souls to rescue and save, and God has entrusted His people with the keys to the kingdom and the message of salvation. The world is full of distractions and reasons to hesitate, but the value of each soul and the reality of eternity should compel us to act with urgency and compassion, seeking out the lost and sharing the hope we have in Jesus. [01:06:58]

Romans 10:13-15 (ESV)
For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!”

Reflection: What is one fear or obstacle that has kept you from sharing your faith, and how can you ask God to help you overcome it today?

Day 5: Christ’s Presence and Power for the Mission

Jesus promises to be with His followers always, even to the end of the age, providing the strength, wisdom, and courage needed to fulfill His mission. This assurance is not just for the original disciples, but for every believer who steps out in faith to make disciples, teach, and baptize. No matter the challenges or doubts faced, Christ’s presence is the source of confidence and hope, empowering His people to shine as lights in a dark world and to shepherd others into His family. [01:08:54]

Hebrews 13:20-21 (ESV)
Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.

Reflection: In what area of your life do you most need to rely on Christ’s presence and power as you seek to obey His call to make disciples?

Sermon Summary

Today’s gathering centered on the greatness of God and the profound responsibility entrusted to every follower of Christ. We began by reflecting on God’s faithfulness and the joy of answered prayers, as seen in the Bearden family’s good news. Our worship and prayers reminded us of the blessings, mercy, and grace that God continually pours out, and the songs prepared our hearts to consider the depth of Christ’s sacrifice and the mission He has given us.

The heart of our focus was the Great Commission in Matthew 28:16-20. Jesus, after His resurrection, gathered His diverse group of disciples—men from all walks of life—and entrusted them with a singular, world-changing mission: to make disciples of all nations. This command was not just for the original apostles, but for all who would come to believe through their word. Jesus’ authority, given by the Father, is the foundation for this mission. He is the mediator, the bridge between God and humanity, and it is through Him alone that salvation is possible.

We explored what it truly means to “make disciples.” It is not merely about sharing information or inviting someone to church, but about teaching others to follow Jesus, to be baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and to continue learning and obeying all that Christ has commanded. Baptism, as shown throughout the New Testament, is not just a symbol or a deep internal commitment, but an immersion in water that unites us with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. This is the entry point into the new life and the church.

Yet, the commission does not end at baptism. Jesus calls us to continue teaching, nurturing, and equipping one another to grow in faith and obedience. Evangelism and edification are inseparable; we are called to reach the lost and to build up the saved. The challenge is not just to know the truth, but to share it boldly, to shepherd others, and to shine as lighthouses in a world desperate for hope. Each of us holds the keys to the kingdom, and the responsibility to invite others in. The question remains: what is stopping us from fulfilling this command, and what must change in our hearts today?

Key Takeaways

1. The Authority and Mercy of Christ Jesus’ authority is not just inherent as God, but is uniquely established through His incarnation, death, and resurrection. He is the only mediator who bridges the gap between a holy God and sinful humanity, offering mercy and salvation to all who come to Him. This authority is the foundation for our mission and our hope. [49:33]
2. Making Disciples Means More Than Conversion To make disciples is to teach others to follow Jesus, not just to believe in Him. It involves guiding people into a life of obedience, beginning with baptism and continuing with ongoing teaching and encouragement. Discipleship is a lifelong journey, not a one-time event. [52:40]
3. Baptism: The Scriptural Entry into New Life Baptism, as consistently shown in Scripture, is an immersion in water that unites us with Christ’s death and resurrection. It is not merely a symbol or a private commitment, but the God-ordained means by which we are added to His church and receive the promise of new life. To teach otherwise is to risk obscuring the very path to salvation. [61:04]
4. The Ongoing Call to Teach and Shepherd The Great Commission is not fulfilled at conversion; it continues as we teach one another to observe all that Christ has commanded. Every Christian is called to both evangelize the lost and edify the saved, nurturing growth and maturity in the body of Christ. This is a call to active, ongoing participation in God’s mission. [64:17]
5. Overcoming Barriers to Obedience Many hesitate to share their faith out of fear, inadequacy, or distraction. Yet, Jesus has entrusted us with the keys to the kingdom and the responsibility to shepherd His sheep. The world is in desperate need of the truth we possess; we must examine what holds us back and commit to bold, compassionate obedience. [68:20]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[12:37] - Opening Song: How Great Thou Art
[15:36] - Announcements and Visitor Welcome
[17:16] - Prayer and Praise for God’s Faithfulness
[18:40] - Songs of Worship and Reflection
[21:50] - Preparing for the Lord’s Supper
[24:20] - Scripture Reading: Isaiah 59
[24:57] - The Sacrifice and Love of Christ
[32:40] - Children’s Dismissal and Additional Songs
[38:52] - Scripture Reading: Matthew 28:16-20
[41:18] - Reviewing the Teachings of Jesus
[45:02] - The Great Commission: Context and Command
[48:09] - The Authority of Christ Explained
[52:01] - What It Means to Make Disciples
[54:41] - Baptism: Meaning and Scriptural Foundation
[63:38] - Teaching Beyond Baptism: Lifelong Discipleship
[66:58] - The Urgency and Responsibility of Evangelism
[71:58] - Invitation and Closing Song
[74:53] - Announcements and Fellowship
[80:10] - Closing Prayer and Dismissal

Bible Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: The Great Commission and Our Calling

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 Matthew 28:18, what does Jesus say about his authority, and why is this significant for the command he gives next? ([48:09])
What specific actions does Jesus command his disciples to do in verses 19-20? How are these actions connected? ([50:43])
In the sermon, what is said about the meaning and importance of baptism as described in the Great Commission? ([01:01:04])
What does Jesus promise his followers at the end of the Great Commission? How might this have encouraged the disciples? ([40:00])

Interpretation Questions

The sermon explains that Jesus’ authority is both inherent as God and uniquely established through his incarnation, death, and resurrection. Why is it important that Jesus grounds the Great Commission in his authority? ([49:33])
The command to “make disciples” is described as more than just conversion or sharing information. What does it mean, according to the sermon, to truly make a disciple? ([52:40])
The sermon emphasizes that baptism is not just a symbol or private commitment, but an immersion in water that unites us with Christ’s death and resurrection. Why is this distinction important for understanding the entry into new life? ([01:01:04])
The Great Commission includes an ongoing call to teach and shepherd. How does the sermon describe the relationship between evangelism (reaching the lost) and edification (building up the saved)? ([01:04:17])

Application Questions

The sermon challenges us to examine what is stopping us from fulfilling the Great Commission. What are some specific fears, distractions, or feelings of inadequacy that keep you from sharing your faith? How can you address one of these barriers this week? ([01:08:20])
Jesus calls every believer to both evangelize and edify. Think of someone in your life who is not a Christian and someone who is a newer believer. What is one practical step you can take this week to encourage each of them in their faith journey? ([01:04:17])
The sermon describes baptism as the God-ordained means of entering new life and the church. If you have been baptized, how does remembering your baptism shape your daily walk with Christ? If you have not, what questions or hesitations do you have about it? ([01:01:04])
The message warns against treating evangelism as simply inviting someone to church. What are some ways you can be more intentional about sharing the gospel in your everyday conversations and relationships? ([01:09:33])
The sermon says, “Each of us holds the keys to the kingdom, and the responsibility to invite others in.” What does it look like for you to use those “keys” in your current season of life? ([01:08:20])
Jesus promises to be with us “to the end of the age.” How does this promise give you courage or comfort as you think about making disciples? ([40:00])
The sermon calls us to shine as lighthouses in a world desperate for hope. What is one way you can let your light shine more brightly this week, either at home, work, or in your community? ([52:01])

Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Ask God for boldness, compassion, and wisdom to live out the Great Commission, and for hearts that are open to both sharing and receiving the good news of Jesus.

Sermon Clips

“Jesus was very logical in his teachings. He was never very brutelike, but he simply guided his listeners to an understanding. He taught exactly who he is, that he is God with us, that he has equality with God, and he brought evidences to show that he has equality with God.”

“In his lessons, he taught salvation. He handed the keys of the kingdom over to his apostles. He taught how a disciple of his is supposed to live. He taught about your value to him and what his value to you ought to be.”

“He taught how to put others first and how to seek out sheep. He taught how to love and how love is crucial to our obedience. He taught what we are judged by. That loving obedience of serving the least. His teachings were meant to make disciples.”

“His teachings very much primarily were meant to prepare his disciples to go out and teach others to become disciples. As you may have noticed in our scripture reading this morning in Matthew 28:16-20, as well as the songs leading up to this lesson this morning, we're focusing on the great commission.”

“He has assembled his his apostles as we've looked at over the course of this study from various walks of life. He teaches these teachings along the way to them and says to them essentially, you are responsible for getting this message out to everyone else.”

“When Jesus is being arrested, what do the apostles do? They scatter. Does Jesus question them? Does Jesus question their loyalty? Does Jesus give up on them? No. But what does Jesus do? Jesus appears to them.”

“He opened their minds to understand the scriptures. And he said to them, "Thus it is written that the Christ would suffer and rise again from the dead the third day and that repentance for forgiveness of sins would be proclaimed to his in his name to all the nations beginning from Jerusalem."”

“They come from all different walks of life. But what do they have in common? It is their Lord. And it is this message. He brings them back together again. Tells them it's time for them to go. And they all share this message to whoever they they go out to.”

“He has demonstrated plainly his defeat of death to them. And so when they see him, they worship him. Progano, which means to fall upon the knee. It means to kiss the ring. They are prostrating themselves. They bow before him. They acknowledge not just their friend, but their God, their master.”

“If not for him, all are doomed. But now with such authority, he can be that bridge that brings over this creation to the righteous God for all eternity. He has the allowance to do such thing as the mercy seat as the atonement for mankind.”

“Since I am the one through whom people are saved, since I have this authority, go get them. Is effectively what Jesus has just said. Since there is this message, since there is this truth that they may be saved, since there is now a way to have mercy, since there is now a way for atonement, since there is now a way across, since I am that way, he tells these 11, "Go get them and bring them to me so that they may have safe passage."”

“To make a disciple is to teach. Since a disciple is a follower of a teaching meaning teach them to follow me. Teach, teach them that I am the way out. Teach them the way that I have authority to get them out. The the authority that has been given to me.”

“Jesus has prepared them to go now teach all of those lessons that we've been looking at these last three months. That Jesus is the son of God. That Jesus has equality with God. That Jesus built a church and we must make a great confession.”

“Throughout the New Testament, we see frequently the association of baptism with water. We see in 1 Peter chapter 3 21 following this this comparison to Noah and his and his ark which was came through water. He says in verse 21, now we have an antitype baptism which now saves us throughout.”

“Here is the divine command to teach the church. Teaching non-Christians to become Christians in verse 19. teaching Christians how to be Christians in verse 20. Did the Philippian jailer have it all figured out prior to his salvation? He was on the verge of killing himself.”

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