“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.'” – Matthew 28:18-20
Obedience doesn’t come naturally to any of us, it has to be taught. When Jesus gave the Great Commission, He didn’t just say “teach,” but specifically “teach them to obey all that I have commanded you.” There’s a profound difference between knowing what’s right and actually doing it. We live in a world that bears the consequences of that original disobedience in Genesis, where brokenness, illness, war, and destruction remind us daily of what happens when we choose our way over God’s way. But Jesus doesn’t leave us hopeless in that brokenness. He provides both the example and the power to walk in obedience.
The beauty of this commission is that it’s not meant to be walked alone. Jesus established a pattern: He discipled His followers, who then discipled others, creating a chain that reaches all the way to us today. Whether through life groups, mentorship, or simply doing life together, we’re called to both disciple others and be discipled ourselves. This two-way street of discipleship sharpens us, grows us, and keeps us accountable to living out everything Christ commanded. When we engage in this rhythm, we’re not just passing on information, we’re modeling a transformed life that flows from genuine love for Jesus.
Reflect:
- Who is currently discipling you, and who are you intentionally pouring into?
- In what areas of your life is obedience to Christ’s commands most challenging right now?
- Ask God to reveal where He’s calling you to deeper obedience and to bring someone into your life who can walk alongside you in that journey.
