Living in Jesus' Authority: Our Call to Discipleship

Devotional

Day 1: Jesus’ Sovereignty Encompasses Every Part of Life

Jesus’ authority is not limited or occasional; it is total and unceasing over all creation—heaven and earth alike. This means that no situation, decision, or struggle exists outside his sovereign rule. You are invited to bring every burden, hope, and choice before him, trusting that he alone has the power to redeem and restore. Surrendering to Jesus’ authority is not a one-time event but a daily posture of faith, requiring continual trust and obedience in every circumstance.

When you recognize Jesus’ complete authority, it changes how you live. Instead of trying to control outcomes or carry burdens alone, you can rest in the assurance that he governs all things with perfect wisdom and love. This surrender invites peace and guidance, empowering you to face life’s challenges with confidence in his redeeming power. [49:30]

Psalm 103:19–22
The LORD has established his throne in the heavens, and his kingdom rules over all. Bless the LORD, O you his angels, you mighty ones who do his word, obeying the voice of his word! Bless the LORD, all his hosts, his ministers, who do his will! Bless the LORD, all his works, in all places of his dominion. Bless the LORD, O my soul!

Reflection: What is one specific area of your life today where you have not fully acknowledged Jesus’ authority? How can you practically surrender that area to him right now, trusting his sovereign care?

Day 2: The Urgency and Inclusivity of Making Disciples

The call to “go and make disciples of all nations” is an active, personal command for every believer, not just church leaders or missionaries. Evangelism is not a program to check off but a conviction that shapes your daily life. God’s heart is for all people, and the mission field begins with those closest to you—your neighbors, coworkers, and community—and extends to the ends of the earth.

This calling challenges any tendency to limit who is worthy of the gospel or to stay comfortable within familiar circles. Instead, it compels you to cross cultural, social, and personal boundaries, embracing the diversity of God’s kingdom. Your obedience in sharing the gospel reflects God’s inclusive love and advances his redemptive plan for all nations. [58:56]

Isaiah 49:6
He says: “It is too light a thing that you should be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob and to bring back the preserved of Israel; I will make you as a light for the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.”

Reflection: Who in your immediate circle or community represents a “nation” you have not yet reached out to with the gospel? What is one practical step you can take this week to begin building a bridge to them?

Day 3: Baptism as the First Act of Obedience and Public Faith

Baptism is not the means by which we are saved, but it is the first act of obedience following salvation—a visible, public declaration of the inward reality of faith. It symbolizes our union with Christ in his death and resurrection, marking a new identity and commitment. Jesus himself was baptized, setting an example for all who follow him to make their faith known openly and without delay.

Delaying baptism can hinder the fullness of obedience and the joy of publicly affirming what God has done in your heart. Baptism is a powerful testimony to the world and a personal milestone that strengthens your walk with Christ. It invites the community to celebrate your new life and encourages you to live in the reality of resurrection power daily. [01:04:07]

Colossians 2:11–13
In him also you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead. And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses.

Reflection: If you have not yet been baptized, what fears or hesitations are holding you back? How can you take a step toward obedience in baptism this week, trusting God’s call to publicly declare your faith?

Day 4: Living and Teaching the Fullness of Jesus’ Way

To teach all that Jesus commanded is to embody his life and character—loving God with all your heart and loving others sacrificially. This teaching goes beyond words; it is a call to live out compassion, generosity, faithfulness, and relentless service in every area of life. Your example shapes others and reflects the heart of God to the world, influencing the next generation of disciples.

Faithfulness in teaching and living the gospel means daily choices to prioritize Christ’s values over cultural norms or personal convenience. It challenges you to be intentional in how you love, serve, and share truth, making your life a living testimony of Jesus’ transformative power. [01:06:55]

Titus 2:7–8
Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us.

Reflection: What is one specific way you can model Jesus’ compassion or faithfulness in your daily routine this week? How can you intentionally teach or demonstrate this to someone else?

Day 5: Jesus’ Presence as Our Unfailing Source of Joy and Comfort

Jesus promises to be with his followers always, to the very end of the age. His presence is not dependent on circumstances but is a constant source of joy, comfort, and strength. In moments of pain, brokenness, or uncertainty, you can call on him with confidence, knowing he is near and faithful to respond.

This abiding presence transforms how you face life’s difficulties. Instead of despair or loneliness, you experience hope and peace rooted in the nearness of Christ. His presence sustains you, reminding you that you are never alone and that his joy transcends every trial. [01:10:04]

Zephaniah 3:17
The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.

Reflection: When you face hardship or loneliness, how can you practically remind yourself of Jesus’ presence today? Can you create a habit or practice that helps you experience his comfort more deeply?

Sermon Summary

Summary

Gathered together as a family of faith, we celebrate the incredible work God is doing among us—especially the many who have recently responded to the gospel. In the wake of such moments, it’s natural to ask, “Now what?” Just as the disciples must have wondered after the resurrection, we too must consider what comes next in light of Jesus’ victory over death. The answer is found in Jesus’ own words in Matthew 28, where he gives clear instruction to his followers: it’s all about him. Our calling is to embrace his authority, make disciples, baptize in his name, teach all he commanded, and rest in his abiding presence.

First, we must recognize that all authority in heaven and on earth belongs to Jesus. This is not a partial or occasional authority, but a total and constant sovereignty. Because of this, we are invited—and even compelled—to bring everything in our lives to him, trusting that he alone has the power to redeem, restore, and guide.

Second, we are called to action: to go and make disciples of all nations. This is not a passive suggestion but an active command. Evangelism is not merely a church program but a personal conviction for every believer. We are to cross every boundary, refusing to draw lines around who can be saved, because the gospel is for everyone.

Third, we are to baptize new believers in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Baptism is not what saves, but it is the first act of obedience after salvation—a public declaration of faith and a picture of our union with Christ in his death and resurrection. If Jesus himself was baptized, how much more should we follow in his example?

Fourth, we are to teach all that Jesus commanded. The Christian life is summed up in loving God with all we are and loving others as ourselves. Our teaching and living should reflect the fullness of Jesus’ life—his compassion, generosity, faithfulness, and relentless service.

Finally, we are promised the presence of Jesus. He is with us always, in every circumstance, bringing joy, comfort in pain, and nearness when we call. No matter where we are or what we face, his presence is our assurance and strength.

The question remains: Is your life all about Jesus? In every area—your family, work, relationships, and struggles—are you surrendering to his authority and living for his glory? Today is the day to call on him, to respond in faith, and to walk in the fullness of what he has called us to do.

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Key Takeaways

1. Jesus’ Authority Is Total and Constant All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Jesus by the Father. This means there is no area of life, no circumstance, and no challenge outside his sovereign rule. We are invited to bring every burden, decision, and hope to him, trusting that he alone has the power to act and redeem. Surrendering to his authority is not a one-time act but a continual posture of faith. [49:30]
2. Making Disciples Is an Active, Inclusive Calling The command to “go and make disciples of all nations” is a call to action for every believer, not just church leaders. Evangelism is not a program but a personal conviction, and we must resist the temptation to limit the reach of the gospel. God’s heart is for all people, and he has brought the nations to our doorstep—our mission field begins with our neighbors and extends to the ends of the earth. [58:56]
3. Baptism Is the First Step of Obedience, Not the Means of Salvation Baptism is a public declaration of faith, symbolizing our union with Christ in his death and resurrection. It does not save us, but it is the first act of obedience after coming to faith. If Jesus himself was baptized to set an example, we should not delay in following him in this step, making our faith visible to the world and affirming what God has done in our hearts. [64:07]
4. Teaching All About Jesus Means Living and Sharing His Way of Life To teach all that Jesus commanded is to model our lives after his—loving God wholeheartedly and loving others sacrificially. This teaching is not just about imparting knowledge but about embodying the character and priorities of Christ in every area of life. Our faithfulness in teaching and living out the gospel shapes the next generation of disciples and reflects the heart of God to the world. [66:55]
5. The Presence of Jesus Is Our Constant Joy and Comfort Jesus promises to be with us always, to the very end of the age. His presence brings joy that transcends circumstances, comfort in our pain, and assurance that we are never alone. In moments of brokenness, uncertainty, or need, we can call on him, knowing he is near and faithful to respond. This abiding presence is the foundation of our hope and the source of our strength. [70:04]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[41:31] - Reflecting on Resurrection: What’s Next?
[43:45] - Religion vs. Relationship: The Attempt to Control
[45:00] - The Resurrection: Conspiracies and Truth
[47:59] - The Great Commission: Jesus’ Authority
[49:30] - All Authority Belongs to Jesus
[52:19] - Jesus’ Authority in Action
[54:23] - Bringing Everything to Jesus
[55:19] - Entrusting Our Burdens to Christ
[57:18] - Making Disciples: Action and Conviction
[58:56] - The Gospel for All Nations
[60:19] - True Conversion: Beyond Cultural Christianity
[62:45] - Baptism: Obedience and Public Declaration
[64:07] - Following Jesus’ Example in Baptism
[66:55] - Teaching All About Jesus
[68:53] - The Promise of Jesus’ Presence
[70:04] - God’s Presence in Joy and Pain
[73:02] - Is Your Life All About Jesus?
[74:10] - Responding to Jesus’ Call
[77:12] - Celebration and Dismissal

Bible Study Guide

Bible Reading

Matthew 28:16-20 — _Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”_

Observation Questions

According to Matthew 28:18, what kind of authority does Jesus claim for himself?
What are the specific actions Jesus commands his followers to do in Matthew 28:19-20?
In the sermon, what is the difference between “religion” and “relationship” as described by the pastor? ([43:45])
What does the pastor say is the first act of obedience after someone comes to faith in Jesus? ([01:02:45])

Interpretation Questions

The pastor says Jesus’ authority is “total and constant.” What does it mean for a believer to live as if Jesus is truly in charge of “everything all of the time”? ([49:30])
Why do you think Jesus specifically tells his followers to “make disciples of all nations”? What does this say about the scope of the gospel? ([58:56])
The sermon emphasizes that baptism is not what saves, but is a public declaration. Why is public declaration important in the Christian life? ([01:04:07])
Jesus promises his presence “always, to the very end of the age.” How might this promise affect the way a believer faces challenges or suffering? ([01:10:04])

Application Questions

The pastor challenged the church to bring “everything” to Jesus, not just the big things. Is there something in your life right now that you’ve been holding back from surrendering to Jesus’ authority? What would it look like to give it to him this week? ([54:23])
Evangelism is described as a “personal conviction, not a church program.” When was the last time you shared your faith with someone? What is one step you can take this week to be more intentional about sharing Jesus with a neighbor, coworker, or friend? ([57:18])
The sermon warns against drawing lines around who can be saved. Are there people or groups you find it hard to imagine coming to faith? How can you pray for or reach out to them? ([58:56])
If you have already been baptized, how did that public step impact your faith? If you haven’t, what is holding you back from taking that step of obedience? ([01:04:07])
The Christian life is summed up as loving God with all you are and loving others as yourself. What is one practical way you can show love to God and to someone else this week? ([01:06:55])
The pastor said Jesus’ presence brings joy and comfort, even in pain. Can you share a time when you experienced God’s presence in a difficult season? How did it change your perspective? ([01:10:04])
The closing challenge was: “Is your life all about Jesus?” In what area—family, work, relationships, struggles—do you most need to make it “all about Jesus” right now? What is one step you can take this week to move in that direction? ([01:13:02])

Sermon Clips

If he is in charge of everything all of the time, why wouldn't we give him everything every time? Some of you have walked in here today and you're holding on to something that you need to give to Jesus. Bitterness, resentment, unforgiveness, a past hurt, somebody sinned against you or you sinned against someone else, your relationship, a child who is far from God, a rift within your family, a fractured relationship with your dad, and you need to hand that over to Jesus. He has authority. All authority belongs to him. Here's the second thing we understand about what's next is we make disciples of Jesus. [00:56:02] (39 seconds) Edit Clip

Here's why I think this matters. You ready? Because I think Jesus knew there was a chance in our sinfulness that we might be tempted to draw arbitrary lines around who could be saved and who could not. Come on. And so he told us, take the gospel. Make disciples of the nations. [00:59:06] (21 seconds) Edit Clip

We're called to make disciples of Jesus because everybody needs him. I think this is simple and yes, it is obvious, but it also probably demands to be said. The church has to be busy seeing people converted to Christ, not a conservative version of cultural Christianity as a damning substitute instead. [01:00:23] (22 seconds) Edit Clip

Now, when it comes to the teaching, specific to the commandments of Christ, Jesus got asked one time by somebody with an impure motive, but Jesus perfectly knows how to respond. Hey, what's the greatest commandment? And Jesus said, love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength. And then Jesus chased it immediately and said, and love your neighbor as yourself. The second one is like it. And so if you wanna be obedient to the instruction of Jesus, here it is. You ready? In a nutshell, this is the Christian life. It's really complicated. Love God with everything you got and love others in his name. [01:06:07] (31 seconds) Edit Clip

And so to teach about Jesus is to understand the way in which he lived his life and we try to live in the same way, the way in which Jesus cared for others and we try to care in the same way, the way in which Jesus gave generously and we try to give in the same way, the way in which Jesus believed faithfully and we try to believe in the same way, the way in which Jesus served relentlessly and we try to serve in the same way. We wanna paint a picture that is 360 degrees in the view of what it looks like to teach about Jesus. This is why we only and always teach the Bible because this book from its beginning to its end is all about Jesus. [01:07:46] (43 seconds) Edit Clip

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