Go Therefore and Make Disciples

Jesus commanded us to go make disciples. He didn’t say some of us should do this. The Great Commission applies to all of us. He did not say only pastors and elders are to make disciples. He did not say only missionaries and Sunday School teachers are required to make disciples. We are all commanded to be disciple-makers.

I’m quite certain that both disciple-making and witnessing are callings that many Christians find uncomfortable. We always risk rejection, and with the exception of a handful of Christians, this act is something outside of our comfort zones. But Jesus did not say: “Go make disciples if it’s in your comfort zone.”

Fortunately, Jesus has all authority over this, and He gave us the power we need! You know the old saying—when you see the word “Therefore,” you need to see what it is “therefor.” Let’s take a look at the verse just before the Great Commission. Matthew 28:18 reads, “Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and earth has been given to me.’” Jesus commands us to go make disciples, and it should be very comforting that as part of this Great Commission, He ties it to the fact that “all authority,” has been given to Him. He has the authority, and He gave us power. Where did we receive this power? Acts 1:8 begins, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you…”

You may still say: “I’m nervous about the rejection, and I’m afraid my friends or family might dislike me because of this.” First, remember that the calling of people through witnessing is through the power of the Holy Spirit. Remember that, and it will remove the pressure of what to say or how to answer a difficult objection.

Here is my suggestion. Have a chat with Jesus that goes something like this: “Jesus, I know I should witness, and I should make disciples. But I am afraid of being rejected. Jesus, do you have any idea what rejection feels like?” I think He does. “Well Jesus, what if I am actually betrayed by close friends or family. Do you have any idea what betrayal feels like?” He knows what that feels like, too.

Try this prayer: “Jesus, all authority in heaven and on earth is Yours. You gave me power when the Holy Spirit came to me. Give me the courage to take a step of obedience and be Your witness, to make disciples and be obedient to Your command.”