SCRIPTURE: Matthew 28
OBSERVATION/APPLICATION:
I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age. [Matthew 28:18-20] This passage represents my core conviction (Jesus is Lord), my core commitment (go and make disciples) and my core confidence (Jesus is with me to the end).
Why do we as Christians often act as if we are in a position of weakness, as if greater is he that is in the world than He that is in us? Jesus was attacked by sin, death and hell… and He overcame. Jesus is victorious, Jesus is alive, Jesus is Lord. We often resemble Elijah after his amazing victory on Mount Carmel, hiding away in the wilderness and complaining to God that we are all alone [1 Kings 19:1-18].
The Jesus Way, life lived according to the principles and practices of Jesus, may seem weak, but it is a revolutionary pattern of living that can overcome sin, death and hell. As we live in the pattern of our King (all authority means ALL authority), He extends His victory through us. Our job is not to convert people, just to declare the good news of the King, and demonstrate the good life of the Kingdom. He will take care of changing peoples’ hearts. He will build His church.
As we come to the end of the book of Matthew, we face the choice that he presented: will we accept that Jesus is the promised messiah (God’s promised King to restore God’s Kingdom), and that living according to His kingdom principles and practices (humility, self-sacrifice, servanthood, grace, compassion, generosity, etc.) is the only, the best way to live?
This calls for more than words, it must translate into action. It is not those who say “Lord, Lord”, but those who do (practice) what He says [Matthew 7:21]. I am on a mission for the resurrected King. The lies of Satan cannot keep Him down. Jesus says, “do not be afraid!”. Will I go? The only thing holding me back from living for my King… is me!
PRAYER:
Lord, You are King of the universe. Help me to be bold in You!
Here we read of the Great Commission – the command to go and proclaim the Good News. We have His Word which tells us through Paul –
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
we are equipped for works of service.
And we have His Spirit to lead us. Again and again, the Lord tells His people not to be afraid. He is with us to the end of the age. Therefore, why do I fear? Lord, Help me to Stand up for Jesus, always.
As I approach another Christmas, remembering the gift of salvation, renew my Spirit Lord with Your presence so that I may boldly proclaim, here I am Lord. Send me. May all those who see me know that I am your servant, Lord – a Christ follower.
Here I am, Lord. Is it I, Lord?
I have heard you calling in the night.
I will go, Lord, if you lead me.
I will hold your people in my heart.