In our study so far of the Great Commission, we’ve learned
that it REALLY means:
Disciple all the peoples of the
world as you are going about your normal daily routine – baptizing them into
the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
This brings us to the third participle: TEACHING. “Teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.”
Ah yes, teaching! This means that we must know something
about (1) how people learn (after all, a disciple is a learner!), and
(2) how to facilitate their learning. So my next big topics will explore how
people learn, and then how we might become better disciplers (teachers!).
So the commission is to disciple all peoples by
going, baptizing, and teaching! What a frightening task – but we need not fear,
because the Great Commission concludes with Jesus’ promise, “I will be with you always, to the very end
of the age.” No fear. Jesus is with us. J
To cap off this initial series of posts, you might want to
watch a sparkling video of me talking about the Great Commission. Click here:
I really appreciate the emphasis on Jesus's promise to be with us as we set out to accomplish what he has called us to do. He isn't sending us out on our own to succeed or fail in our own strength; he has promised to be present in our journey. Therefore, as you correctly state, no fear is necessary. Good word :)
ReplyDeleteAn important and yet daunting task; teaching. May we all seek the Lord in what to understand so we can appropriately guide others to do the same.
ReplyDeleteI was once told to teach in order to be taught. This allows us to remain the learner even though we are the teacher. Teaching is not the deliverance of information but a journey we take with people and mutually teaching as we go. This is what you have expressed.
ReplyDeleteI think it is important to remember that it was Jesus himself speaking these words. Yes every thing he said in this passage is gold and it is great for us to exegete it so that we can fully understand it's meaning and implications. Also, it is a very daunting task that we will need Jesus's help for, so great for his final word of encouragement, but it also reminds us who we are doing it for. These words are coming for the man who suffered and died for us in humble obedience...makes our part of it seem easy.
ReplyDeleteI believe teaching is the most ignored or misunderstood part of the Great commission. Often, people don't know how to respond, teach well, or communicate to the learner in a way where they will fully understand.
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