Go and Make Disciples

A Devotion by Joe G.

Jesus’ Final Words to His Disciples

Matthew 28:18-20; Jeremiah 29:13

The word Disciple is one of my favorite words. I first came across it in the book of Matthew. I prefer the Christian definition of the word Disciple over the general one Webster’s dictionary uses.

Webster says a Disciple is:

“a pupil or follower of any teacher or school.”

Webster’s definition isn’t false by any means. For me, it’s just a little general.

I use the Christian definition of the word disciple in my writing and verbal usage.

Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 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, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Matthew 28:18-20

These are Jesus’ final instructions to His Disciples, Apostles, and all followers. When He uses the word, Disciples, Jesus uses it in place of the word learner.

During my life, I have strived to be a Disciple of Jesus. Yet, I mess up all the time. I read the Bible, write devotions, and pray, but I still make mistakes. But, they are mistakes God forgives me of because of what His Son Jesus did on the cross for us.

It’s essential that we know, read and understand the Bible. Jesus leaves us with very explicit and succinct words in His final instructions.

“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, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”

Jesus tells us to make learners (disciples)of others. And yet, we are always learning, reading, teaching. We, too, will always be Disciples. Jesus tells us to seek out others, teach them all that He has taught us, and to bring them to the waters of Baptism.

My favorite part of this passage is the final fourteen words.

“And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

That’s quite a promise, isn’t it?

“I am with you always.”

I/We can’t see Him or touch Him. But we can rest assured that Jesus is always with us. Who knows what great things He has in store for us? I don’t have any idea. But I’m anxious to find out.