Pleasing God, Making Disciples of Jesus Christ

Encounters With the Master – Lessons in Discipleship – Part 3

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.”  Matthew 28:16-20

1. The Gospel command is given with divine authority behind it: Matthew 28:18-19

a. Christ’s authority establishes our obedience: Luke 6:46, 2 Cor. 5:14-19

b. Christ’s authority personalizes our obedience: 2 Cor. 5:9-11

2. The Gospel command is given with clear direction: Matthew 28:19-20a, 2 Cor. 11:3

a. We must mobilize ourselves toward the lost: 1 Thess. 1:6-8

b. We must commit to impartiality toward the lost: Mark 16:15

c. We must invest for the long term with people: Acts 20:17-35

3. The gospel command is given with intimate help promised: Matthew 28:18-20b

a. Christ’s presence in power: Matt. 28:18-20b, Acts 1:4-8

b. Christ’s presence in fellowship: Matt. 28:18-20b, Acts 18:9-10, 1 John 3-4