Go and Make

Previously, we looked at the first command of Jesus' earthly ministry--come and follow me--and how it still applies to us today. Now let's consider the final command of his time on earth, which also has here and now application, found in Matthew 28:19--Go therefore and make disciples of all nations...

Go means take immediate action. Just like his initial earthly command, Jesus isn't telling us to develop an action plan and research market conditions. Of all nations means everywhere. Both near and far. No restricted territories. Simple enough, right? Now comes the part that might be a little confusing for some--make disciples. What does that look like? Are we supposed to find twelve men to teach and follow us around like Jesus did?

By definition, a disciple is a follower of Jesus Christ. So to make disciples means to produce more Christ followers. It is truly that simple. We complicate this very basic command by trying to absorb more and more Biblical knowledge to qualify ourselves for what we think is an arduous task. Or worse yet, we disqualify ourselves from making disciples by thinking only those with more spiritual depth are up to the task. Our enemy loves for us to get tangled up in either of these flawed notions because it keeps us from advancing God's Kingdom. It keeps us in isolation and prevents us from allowing God to work in us and through us to help others grow.

Jesus made disciples by building relationships, by investing deeply into the lives of a few close friends, by sharing the truth of God's Word, by demonstrating God's grace in very real and practical ways to those He encountered. Discipleship is helping others to grow in Christ-likeness. Our families, our churches, our friends and our neighbors all benefit when God's men get serious about making disciples instead of making excuses. Go and make!