“Jesus, undeterred, went right ahead and gave his charge: ‘God authorized and commanded me to commission you: Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then instruct them in the practice of all I have commanded you. I’ll be with you as you do this, day after day after day, right up to the end of the age.”
Matthew 28:18-20 MSG
Do you follow instructions well? Or do you hear directions, but really don’t pay close attention, so when you need to complete the given assignment, you are confused, stymied and want to give up?
Well, in the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus is bidding His followers with a life-transforming charge. Instructions that need to be followed precisely. Purpose-driven directions for a purpose-lived life that will shape your destiny.
THAT is far-reaching and weighty counsel. No room for misunderstanding. Clear-cut exhortation from the mouth of God…so listen up!
Jesus, through the authority of His Father, is commissioning you to “make a difference” for Him wherever you go…near and far. And it’s not if you feel like it…it is a command! But it’s not a “Well…good luck, buddy”, as He saunters away leaving you with this daunting task. No…this is a directive that comes with power! God’s power!
As you instruct others in His ways, as you “talk your walk” and “walk your talk,” Jesus will never leave your side. He will BE your power. He is the One who does the life-transforming work through you…and to those around you.
And here’s the best part! It’s not a one-time deal. Jesus said, “I’ll be with you day-after-day-after-day as you do this, right up to the end of the age.”
His instructions come with the Guarantor!! Not just a guarantee, but the One who stands behind it!! Right up to the end. He never leaves you. Now and forever! So, listen up…and really live!
