In this powerful message, we're challenged to embrace the call to 'go' in our spiritual lives. The central theme revolves around Matthew 28:18-20, where Jesus commands us to make disciples of all nations. This isn't just a suggestion, but a direct statement from our Savior. We're reminded that 'go' is an action verb, appearing over 1500 times in Scripture, often associated with movement, action, and obedience to God's commands. As followers of Christ, we're all called to this mission - it's not optional or reserved for a select few. The message beautifully parallels our spiritual journey with the dedication of athletes, emphasizing that what happens behind the scenes in our relationship with God is revealed when life's challenges arise. We're encouraged to view our faith as a lifelong process of transformation, actively growing to become more like Jesus every day.
Title: The Call to Go: Living Out the Great Commission
Teaching Summary: This teaching explores the significance of Jesus' command to "go" in the Great Commission. It emphasizes that all followers of Christ are called to actively participate in making disciples. PD stresses the importance of spiritual growth, living on mission, and practically applying our faith in daily life. He challenges believers to use their unique platforms and influences to share the gospel and make a difference for Christ.
Key Points:
- "Go" is an action verb that implies movement, obedience, and spiritual mission
- Making disciples is not optional for followers of Jesus
- Spiritual growth and transformation are essential parts of the Christian journey
- Every believer has a unique area of influence to use for God's kingdom
- Practical steps to "go" include serving others, building up the church, and sharing the gospel
- Forgiveness is a powerful witness to non-believers
- Christians should be bold ambassadors for Christ in a post-Christian world
Scripture Reference:
1. Matthew 28:18-20 - The Great Commission
2. Romans 12:1-2 - Being transformed by the renewing of your mind
Alluded to:
3. Parable of the Talents - Matthew 25:14-30
4. Luke 17:3-4 or Matthew 18:15-17 - Approaching someone who has wronged you
Other verses that align with the sermon's themes:
5. Mark 16:15 - "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation."
6. Acts 1:8 - "But 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."
7. 2 Corinthians 5:20 - "We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us."
8. Galatians 2:20 - "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me."
9. Philippians 2:3-4 - "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others."
10. Colossians 3:23 - "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters."
11. 1 Peter 3:15 - "But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect."
12. Matthew 5:16 - "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
13. Luke 9:23 - "Then he said to them all: 'Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.'"
