Called to Go, Called to Grow
Today’s Scripture:
"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."
— Matthew 28:19 (NIV)
The Great Commission is not a suggestion. It is a command. In Matthew 28:19, Jesus clearly instructs His followers to “go and make disciples of all nations.” This divine instruction reaches far beyond personal comfort zones, familiar surroundings, or cultural barriers. It is a call to step into the world with purpose and passion, sharing the life-changing message of Jesus Christ.
Jesus’ words here are powerful and purposeful. He was preparing His disciples to carry forward the mission He began. His time on earth had shown them how to love, serve, teach, and heal. Now it was their turn to go and do likewise. This same commission is extended to every believer today. We are not meant to keep the good news to ourselves. We are called to share it, live it, and help others grow in it.
Acts 1:8 reinforces this mission. Jesus says, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you. And you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” This verse outlines a pattern of outward movement. It starts at home and expands beyond, reaching into cities, regions, and nations. As believers, we are meant to grow where we are and then go where we are sent.
To be a disciple means to be a student of Jesus. But making disciples means helping others become students of Him as well. It involves more than just sharing a scripture or leading someone in a prayer. It means walking with them. Teaching them. Encouraging them in their faith journey. Helping them grow in the knowledge and truth of God's Word.
Jesus is our example in all things. Hebrews 12:2 reminds us that He is the author and finisher of our faith. He began the work in us and He will complete it. When we follow in His footsteps, we begin to discover the true meaning of purpose. Jesus walked among the hurting. He sought out the lost. He brought hope to the hopeless. And He never lost sight of His Father’s mission. To walk as He walked is to walk with intentionality and compassion.
Philippians 2:5 urges us to adopt the mind of Christ. “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.” His mindset was one of humility, service, and obedience. He did not wait for people to come to Him. He went to them. He crossed boundaries. He spoke truth with love. And He empowered others to do the same.
Too often, it can feel easier to focus on personal faith and not the faith of others. But God’s Word pushes us outward. Romans 10:14 says, “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?” People are waiting to hear about the hope you carry. Your story, your voice, and your witness could be the doorway to someone else’s salvation.
You do not have to be a preacher on a platform to make disciples. Your mission field might be your workplace, your neighborhood, or the person standing next to you in line. It might look like sharing a word of encouragement, inviting someone to church, or mentoring a new believer in their walk. No step is too small when done in obedience to God.
When we respond to the Great Commission, we become co-laborers with Christ. We step into our God-ordained purpose. We grow deeper in our own faith. And we become a light in a world that desperately needs truth and love.
Three Practical Ways to Seek the Will of God Daily and Walk Out Matthew 28:19:
Pray daily for opportunities to share the Gospel.
Ask the Holy Spirit to open doors for conversation and connection. Stay sensitive to the people around you and look for ways to shine the light of Jesus through your words and actions.Invest in the spiritual growth of someone else.
Whether it is a new believer or someone seeking direction, take time to walk with them. Share scriptures. Pray together. Encourage them to grow in the Word and become a disciple who makes disciples.Live with intention and boldness.
Step out of your comfort zone and follow the prompting of the Holy Spirit. Whether that means joining a mission, serving in your community, or speaking to someone about Jesus, trust that God will equip you as you go.
Final Encouragement:
The command to go and make disciples is a call to move with the heartbeat of Heaven. It is an invitation to partner with God in changing lives. Your obedience to that call not only transforms others but also transforms you. So go with courage. Go with love. Go knowing that Jesus walks with you and that you are fulfilling His purpose with every step.