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The song "Commissioned to Go" encapsulates the Great Commission given by our Lord Jesus Christ, as recorded in Matthew 28:19-20 and corroborated by Acts 1:8. The central theme revolves around obedience to the command of Christ to evangelize and make disciples. As we delve into this subject, let us first consider the scriptural mandate:
> "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:19-20, ESV)
This commission is not merely a suggestion; it is a command based on Christ's authority over heaven and earth. It is a call empowered by the Holy Spirit, so that we may be His witnesses unto the ends of the earth.
This passage in Matthew comes from the closing scenes of the Gospel, after Jesus’ resurrection and prior to His ascension. He is speaking to His disciples—not just the eleven apostles but likely a larger group of followers who were witnesses to His resurrection. These disciples had gathered in Galilee, as instructed by the risen Christ, where they were commissioned to a task that required divine empowerment and assurance of Jesus’ continual presence.
Acts 1:8 complements this call, as Jesus prepares His apostles to receive the Holy Spirit:
> "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."
This setting is significant: Jesus was completing His earthly ministry and placing the responsibility of advancing His Kingdom on His disciples, promising them His Spirit to empower their mission.
Key Words in Our Study:
Understanding these terms helps deepen our grasp on the commission as a continuous act of discipleship and testimony driven by relationship and obedience to Christ.
Stanza by Stanza Analysis:
The lyrics echo the command of Matthew 28 and Acts 1, emphasizing the authority granted to Christ and the subsequent sending forth of disciples.
a. Authority and Commissioning:
Jesus announces, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” This authority means His command is backed by divine legitimacy. Cross-reference: Philippians 2:9-11 highlights Christ’s exaltation and authority.
b. The Task of Disciple-Making:
The instruction to "make disciples" implies an ongoing process of teaching and nurturing believers in the counsel of God. Cross-reference: 2 Timothy 2:2 underscores the importance of teaching others who can teach and propagate the faith.
c. Baptizing in the Triune Name:
Baptism signifies initiation into the body of Christ; it is an identification with the triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—and reflects one's submission to His lordship.
d. The Promise of His Presence:
The assurance, "I am with you always," is profound. Cross-reference: Hebrews 13:5 reminds us that He will never leave nor forsake us, establishing continual fellowship and sustenance.
e. The Empowerment for Witness:
Acts 1:8 places emphasis on the power received through the Holy Spirit, illustrating that our human efforts are secondary to divine empowerment. Cross-reference: Zechariah 4:6 teaches, “Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the LORD of hosts.”
1. Submit to Christ's Authority:
First, acknowledge and submit to the authority of Jesus in every aspect of life, recognizing Him as Lord over all creation and personal actions.
2. Be Trained as Disciples:
Second, we must commit to be diligent learners of Christ's teachings, engrossing ourselves in the Word so that we may effectively teach others. Engage in continuous scriptural study and application.
3. Rely on the Holy Spirit:
Third, rely on the Holy Spirit for empowerment and guidance. Pray for His filling daily to witness effectively according to His leading.
4. Fulfill the Commission Actively:
Fourth, engage in disciple-making with intentionality, from your immediate community to the broader world. Use natural conversations, relationships, and opportunities to share the Gospel and lead others to Christ.
Proclamation:
I proclaim that Jesus Christ has all authority in heaven and on earth. I commit to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. I declare that the Holy Spirit empowers me to be a witness, carrying the message of hope and salvation from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth. I trust that my Lord is with me always, to the very end of the age.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with gratitude and humility, recognizing Your supreme authority. We ask for a fresh outpouring of Your Holy Spirit upon us as we endeavor to fulfill Your Great Commission. Equip us with boldness and wisdom, that we may be effective witnesses for Your Kingdom. Lord Jesus, thank You for Your constant presence. Strengthen us to stand firm in faith and obedience until Your return. In the precious name of Jesus, we pray, Amen.
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