The Great Commission

(Matthew 28:16-20)

Monday 9^th to Sunday 15^th May, 2011

Introduction

What lessons have you learnt from Matthew’s gospel? Share one or two of these with the rest of the group.

Studying the passage - Read Matthew 28:16-20

1) Explain, from Matthew’s Gospel, why Jesus has been given “all authority.”

2) What is the significance of the word “therefore” at the start of verse 19?

3) “… go and make disciples of all nations” (v. 19). Rewrite this command in your own words.

4) What does this command mean for us here in the Clarence Valley? How well do we obey it? Discuss some practical things we can do together as a church or as individuals.

5) “… baptising them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.” Is baptism by water necessary for salvation? Explain your answer.

6) “… teaching them to obey everything I have commanded.” What does the “everything” refer to: a) the Sermon on the Mount, b) all the words of Jesus in Matthew’s Gospel, or c) all the Scriptures. What does the answer to this question mean for us today?

7) “Surely I am with you, even to the very end of the age.” Why are these words so important?

Response

Based on the Great Commission, why do Christians go to church? Why do we go to work, etc?

Back in chapter 5, Jesus said, “Let you light shine before men so that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” How has what you have learnt from Matthew’s Gospel encouraged you to shine more brightly?

Spend some time praying to our Heavenly Father, asking Him for His will to be done in our lives, and praising Him for His Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour.