Sunday, May 14, 2023

Today’s Scripture Reading
Matthew 28:16–20

Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 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, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (NRSV)

Reflection
Earlier in Matthew, Jesus said, “Come and follow me and I will make you fish for people.” Throughout the Gospels, Jesus models to his disciples how to live a life of love in a community of service.

Now it’s the disciples’ turn to lead. Jesus directs the disciples to emulate him and to share all that he taught them. The disciples must go out into the world and create new communities, continuing Jesus’ teachings and spiritual work, reflecting God's love, and, by doing so, creating more disciples.

This passage is often referred to as the Great Commission, and it’s been interpreted and misinterpreted in a variety of ways. Crusaders sought conversion to Christianity by force. Christian missionaries have inadvertently brought harm to communities in developing countries in their zeal to convert people to Christianity. When Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” this isn’t what he meant.

When Jesus says, “Obey everything that I have commanded you,” he means for his disciples to hold true to the spiritual principles he taught them, especially to love one another as he has loved them. The foundation for new Christ-centered communities is built on sharing God’s love and grace, recognizing each person as a child of God, to be honored, valued, and loved.

We grow in faith when we purposefully give ourselves to our brothers and sisters, exercising our God-given spiritual gifts — maybe by preparing meals for those who are hungry, or teaching Sunday school, offering friendship to the lonely, or standing up against injustice. This is the work of the church, which we hope will inspire others onto the path of discipleship.

Prayer
Loving Creator, show me where my gifts are needed and guide me to employ these gifts in a manner that inspires discipleship in others. May they know we are Christians by our love. Amen.

Written by Sarah Younger, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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