Recognize Christ’s Authority:
Therefore – Part 2

Scripture Reading:  Philippians 4:13 & 19

Key Verse:  Matthew 28:19

Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit

Jesus gives us our “marching orders” in the Great Commission.  Yesterday’s devotional reminded us that we are to go into our world and make disciples.  However, Jesus did not stop with that command.  He continues by describing the process of disciple making.

The first step in the process is the baptism of those who have believed on Jesus’ name and confessed their sins, seeking forgiveness.  Baptism was a symbolic act that these new believers were to take in order to announce to their community of friends and relatives that they chose Jesus.  In Jesus’ day, that announcement often meant isolation as their family members walked away from them.  Some historians suggest that there were families so upset that their relative had turned away from Jewish Law to Jesus, they conducted mock funerals, parading through the streets announcing that their relative was dead to them because of their baptism in Jesus’ name.  Baptism was a big deal and a huge step for many in the early days of the church.

The second step is all about teaching. We are to teach new believers everything Jesus taught while on earth.  We are to “take authority” and lead them in the maturing process.  Jesus gives us this authority and we must not shy away from our task.  We will receive the power as we go!

Father, I do not feel qualified to make disciples.  By faith, I will take authority, in Jesus’ name, and go do the job you have given me.  In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.