Dear Explorer,
Re-Read Matthew 28:16-20
Okay, we've looked at this commission for several days now. I think it is vitally important that we know what our marching orders are. It is imperative that we learn what we are supposed to be doing after we invite Jesus into our God-shaped vacuum. Yesterday, we saw that one of the first steps is baptism.
Earlier we looked at the word “go” and discussed that I think a better interpretation is “as you are going”, or as you live your life.
Then we looked at teaching or making disciples or followers of Jesus. Today let's look at the last part of the command or commission. First, it says that we are to teach “them”. Who is them?
I believe that this is talking about teaching all those around us – regardless of where they are in their spiritual commitment. There are things that we can do to help empty people and things we can do to help followers. The Holy Spirit will guide us to be ready to encourage and bless each person we encounter.
How do we go about teaching them?
When we think about teaching, we often think of classroom settings or lectures or preaching! How did Jesus teach?
He taught “as He was going.” He modeled how we should deal with life's problems. He taught constantly using a variety of tools.
Read 1 Peter 3:1-4
These verses were written to wives in relationship to husbands, but I believe they can be applied to any follower (male or female) trying to impact those around them and especially close family members!
It's not done by words – it's done by behavior. Live your life so that others want to know what's up with you! Smile and the whole world will wonder what's going on! It's amazing that in this world we live in today, a smiling person is a rarity and draws attention. But that's exactly what Peter is talking about – not just smiling – but letting Jesus' love overflow to all those around us. As I draw near to Jesus, the fruits of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) should be evident in my life. These fruits have a way of attracting attention because they are rare and beautiful qualities.
Okay, so we've got “teach” (by our behavior and use words if necessary), and we know who “them” refers to. What are we supposed to be teaching those around us?
We are supposed to teach them all or everything that Jesus taught His disciples! Uh oh! That's a lot of stuff! Yes, it is. And you have made a great start by discovering for yourself what Jesus taught His disciples by doing this study. Many, many followers have never read what Jesus taught – at least not in an organized and complete way. But now that you know the things that Jesus taught. After you've figured out how to listen to the Holy Spirit and obey His leading, and as you model Jesus' behavior, you can begin to impact those around you. But remember – you don't rely on SELF; you rely on His leading you step by step.
So, now you know your assignment. Get on your mark. Get set. Go!
In His service, dale
Next study