Six Weeks of Prayer: Thursday, October 19, 2017
Jesus says – Go. This requires followers of Jesus to go out. The current model of churches is to put on programs that might attract people into their fellowship. This is not all bad, but it does mean that those you attract are likely to already be Christians. The command is to go, not wait for the nations to come to you. And Jesus promises to be with us when we go.
Make disciples. All Christians are disciples of Jesus, that is, followers and students of Jesus. Jesus doesn’t say “make converts,” but commissions us not only to evangelize, but also to help build up new believers in their faith and to continue the lifelong work of teaching all that he has commanded. Baptize new converts and then disciple them by spending time in God’s word with them.
All nations. The gospel is for everyone. Christianity is the only global religion. Other religions have spread through migration, but the diversity of Christian believers as a result of this Great Commission has produced a truly global church. Does our church reflect this truth?
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. (Matthew 28:19-20)
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, you give us this Great Commission; it is overwhelming, but you promise that you are greater and will be with us. We pray that you give us the courage to go out and that by your Holy Spirit, might make disciples of all nations. Amen.