by Rev. Ivor Duberry
All of Christ followers are in motion. We are going through life toward our eternal destination lead by the Holy Spirit and guided by the Word of God. But what should we really be doing as we go through life? Our response may vary. Christ Jesus tells us of two activities that must top our priority list:
- “Seek first the Kingdom of God (Matt 6:33).”
- “As you go…make disciples [Christ Followers] (Matt 28:18) .”
Of these two activities, “making disciples” seems to be the least understood by many Christians. Putting the interests of the Kingdom of God above our own seems clear enough. But to some of us “making disciples” seems like an activity for bible seminary or divinity school graduates.
What exactly does "As you go...make disciples" mean? At face value, it is a commanding imperative. It implies an urgent, compelling, absolutely necessary, and strong request. It is given to all Christ followers. It is the major theme of the "Great Commission," (Matt 16:18). It is the continuation of the strategic ministry of Jesus Christ to proclaim the good news of the Kingdom of God and to lead men and women into a right relationship with God.
Jesus said "Upon this rock I will build My Church [emphasis mine] (Matt 16:18)." Most bible scholars believe that the "rock" that Jesus refers to is Peter's confession, "You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God (Matt 16:16)." He came to give His life as a ransom for many. This includes those who repent of rebellion against God and believe the gospel and accept and submit to Jesus Christ as Lord. The bible teaches, "Whoever shall call on the name of the Lord will be saved (Rom 10:13)." Also, "If you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved (Rom 10:9-10)."
The church that Jesus is building is made up of those who believe in him, submit to his lordship, and obey his commands. Building his church has been the focus of his mission for the past 2000 years. He enlisted his original disciples and all subsequent disciples to help him build his Church.
"As you go" motivates us to live unselfishly, forces us out of our comfort zone, makes us go where God wants us to, and gives us an opportunistic view of life. When we go to the store or to work or to school or on vacation, we are on the lookout for opportunities to share the “Good News” of Christ. We refuse to pass up opportunities to demonstrate the love of God by providing humanitarian aid to the needy. We make time to pray for the unreached and unengaged peoples in our community and the world.
These are the type of activities that help to build his church. Are you prepared to help guide new believers into the discipleship process of learning and obeying the commandments of Christ? If you would like to know how to do so, send us an email requesting more information (info@aacwm.org).
