Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for May 28, 2017

“What Now?” Matthew 28:16-20 Bible Study 05/28/17

This morning we turn our attention to the concluding verses of Matthew’s gospel. After recording the reality of the resurrection (28:1-15), he closes his inspired writing not with Christ’s ascension but with His commission. The “Great Commission” constitutes Christ’s “marching orders” for the church in every generation.

I. Background/Context (16-17)

-after resurrection
-instruction to meet in Galilee
-commission before ascension (Acts 1:6-11)
-eleven disciples: worship and “hesitation”

II. Authority (18)

-all authority: every conceivable realm
-right to rule and power to exercise rule

III. Assignment (19-20a)

-connection with “therefore”
-one command: make disciples of all nations (ethne)
-disciple: learner, pupil, apprentice
-three amplifying participles: going, baptizing, teaching
-going: active, initiative, offensive
-baptizing: name, Trinitarian formula, identification
-teaching: instruction, comprehensive-all that I have commanded you

IV. Assurance (20b)

-Look!
-I AM (John 8:58)
-with you always to the “completion of the age”

V. So What?

-Armed with the authority and presence of Jesus, invest in the task of making disciples of all nations.
-“Jesus came to seek and save the lost and on the same mission He has sent His church.”
-“We must be global Christians with a global vision because our God is a global God.” (Stott)
-“The Great Commission is not an option to be considered; it is a command to be obeyed.” (Hudson Taylor)