What Did Jesus Commission the Disciples to Do?
The commission of Jesus to His disciples is one of the most important teachings in Christianity. It is often called “The Great Commission”, and it describes the mission Jesus gave to His followers after His resurrection. This command is not only a historical event but also a foundation of Christian belief and evangelism today.
In this article, we will explore in detail what Jesus commanded His disciples to do, why it was important, and how it continues to impact the world today.
The Great Commission: A Divine Mission
After Jesus rose from the dead, He appeared to His disciples and gave them a powerful instruction. This moment is recorded in the Gospel of Matthew 28:18–20.
Jesus told them that all authority in heaven and on earth had been given to Him. Based on this authority, He sent them on a global mission.
The core command included:
- Go into all the world
- Make disciples of all nations
- Baptize them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
- Teach them to obey everything Jesus commanded
- Promise of His continued presence
This commission became the foundation for the spread of Christianity across the world.
1. “Go and Make Disciples of All Nations”
The first instruction Jesus gave was to go beyond their comfort zone. The disciples were not meant to stay in one place but to travel and share the message of salvation.
What this means:
- Spread the message of Jesus Christ globally
- Share the Gospel with all people, not just one group
- Break cultural, social, and geographical barriers
- Invite people into faith and discipleship
This command shows that Christianity is meant for everyone, everywhere.
2. “Baptizing Them in the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit”
Jesus also instructed His disciples to baptize new believers. Baptism symbolizes a spiritual transformation and commitment to God.
Importance of baptism:
- Represents cleansing from sin
- Symbolizes new spiritual life
- Public declaration of faith in Jesus
- Entry into the Christian community
The mention of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit reflects the Christian belief in the Trinity.
3. “Teaching Them to Obey Everything I Have Commanded You”
Jesus did not only want followers—He wanted disciple-makers. That means teaching others to live according to His teachings.
Key aspects of this instruction:
- Educate new believers in God’s Word
- Teach moral values like love, forgiveness, and humility
- Encourage obedience to Christ’s teachings
- Build strong spiritual communities
This shows that Christianity is not just about belief but also about living according to Jesus’ example.
4. “Go Into All the World” – A Global Mission
Jesus expanded the mission beyond Israel. He called His disciples to reach all nations, which was a revolutionary idea at the time.
Key points:
- Christianity is not limited to one nation or ethnicity
- The message is universal
- Missionaries would later travel across continents
- The Gospel spread through preaching, teaching, and service
This global vision led to Christianity becoming one of the largest religions in the world.
5. The Promise of Jesus’ Presence
One of the most comforting parts of the Great Commission is Jesus’ final promise:
“I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
Meaning of this promise:
- Jesus would spiritually remain with His followers
- They would never be alone in their mission
- Strength and guidance would come from Him
- Encouragement during hardship and persecution
This promise gave the disciples courage to spread the Gospel despite challenges.
6. The Disciples’ Response to the Commission
The disciples obeyed Jesus’ command and began spreading His teachings immediately after His ascension.
What they did:
- Preached in Jerusalem and surrounding regions
- Performed acts of healing and miracles
- Baptized thousands of new believers
- Established early Christian churches
- Traveled to distant lands like Asia, Africa, and Europe
Their obedience helped Christianity grow rapidly in the first century.
7. Why the Great Commission Is Important Today
Even today, Christians believe the Great Commission is still active and relevant.
Its modern significance includes:
- Encouraging missionary work around the world
- Promoting acts of charity and compassion
- Spreading messages of peace and forgiveness
- Building faith-based communities globally
- Inspiring personal spiritual growth
Churches and believers continue to follow this command in various ways.
8. Key Lessons from the Commission of Jesus
The Great Commission teaches several important life lessons:
- Faith should lead to action
- Believers are called to share hope with others
- Spiritual growth involves teaching and learning
- Love and unity are central to Christian life
- God’s presence provides strength in every mission
These principles guide millions of Christians worldwide.
Conclusion
The commission Jesus gave to His disciples was a life-changing mission that shaped the future of Christianity. He commanded them to go into all the world, make disciples, baptize believers, and teach His teachings. Along with this mission, He promised His constant presence, giving them strength and confidence.