Jesus had a very clear Kingdom mission given to Him by His Father: to make disciples for the Kingdom. His disciples were to extend themselves into this as well. His focus was now their focus. It was an invitation, of course, but He also had clear expectation that they would follow in His steps. He did not merely come to “tell” He came to show. He provides forgiveness at great personal cost to Himself, reveals kind and strong fulfillment to bring true meaning for our lives, and also gives the free gift of eternal life. For this He asks our submission to His Kingship.
What is the mission of your life? How has this been impacted by your encounter with Jesus Christ the Lamb of God? The word reconciliation means to be restored. Paul focuses this for us in 2 Corinthians 5:18-19: “Now all these gifts are from God, who restored us to Himself through Christ and gave us the serving mission of restoring others, namely, that God was in Christ restoring the world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and He has committed to us the word of restoration.”
He has given all of His disciples everything. Shown them everything. Taught them about connectivity with His Father. And after His resurrection He was clear about His expectations for reciprocal love. “We love because He first loved us.”
Matthew 28:16-20 outlines His vision for His disciples and for us:
“But the eleven disciples proceeded to Galilee (Judas was dead), to the mountain which Jesus had designated (it is unclear which one – but they knew for sure).
When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some were doubtful. And Jesus spoke to them, saying –
√ “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. He does the work. He honors the Father through our obedience to Him. He leads us step by step: “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:29)
√ “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you.” This is what He dedicated His life to and He invites us into the same work: “Do not neglect doing good and sharing, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” (Hebrews 13:16)
√ … and you can know I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” This is described in Matthew 24. For some this will occur while we are yet on the earth. For many others – we will be called out of the grave. His plans and purposes exist outside of and in spite of the limitations of time.
Let’s engage His Kingdom mission until He comes!
True disciples are called to make disciples.
Dave and Burnadette