Our Calling: Make Disciples

Jesus last command:

Matthew 28

16 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 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, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

They worshiped him for the first time!

Yet some doubted. Did they continue to doubt. They doubted when they saw the risen Christ. How much more does it make sense that we doubt. Jesus helped some to be convinced, but here doesn’t seem worried that some doubt.

Instead Jesus focuses on the mission.

Out of the authority the Father has given Jesus over all the earth he sends us to invite. Instead of commanding all the earth to obey, he allows us to participate in his work and kingdom. Working through us comes at a cost.

I have come to believe this is the defining calling for us as followers of Jesus! We are called to make disciples of all nations. I think this means an increasing discipleship in our own lives and then an outward piece of evangelism: making other disciples.

This comes by preaching the Word of God and the good news of Jesus to ourselves and others everyday. For we each daily need a reminder. For others they may not have the chance to hear the gospel unless we preach it. Romans 10

Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”[f]

14 How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? 15 And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!

These two verses sum up well my life and calling. This is why I do InterVarsity staff life.

This is my prayer that InterVarsity and our community would be defined by this purpose. Often Christian community is defined more by focusing inward rather than outward, but I think it is out of fear rather than health. God make us a people like Jesus who live out all of your commands. Let us be a people who make disciples of all nations. Guide and grow me to do this more and more out of love and your calling God.

Amen