Keeping It Clear

Matthew 28:18-20

This week another disaster struck our world. The people of Haiti are in the midst of deep suffering, pain, fear and worry. Their immediate needs are very clear: water, food, shelter and medical attention. So no one is asking what the mission is, because clearly it is to help provide these basic needs. But everyone is scrambling with how to meet those needs.*

This Sunday we are going to look at what Jesus says very clearly is our greatest mission. He states it most plainly in Matthew 28:19-20. We will explore Jesus’ teaching to gain clarity on our mission. In preparation for Sunday, I invite you to read verses 16-20 and ask yourself in what ways you might be able to fulfill your mission of making disciples of Jesus Christ.

Notes

Matthew 14:22-33 – keep your focus on Jesus

Our Mission:
To introduce people to Jesus and bring them into a community of believers who are helping each other become fully devoted followers of Christ.

• Christ's authority empowers you. (v. 18)
• Christ's plan encourages you. (v. 19, 20)
• You are to make disciples.
• “Disciple” means “a learner” or “to learn.”
• A disciple is one who:
• has surrender to Jesus as their master;
• becomes immersed in Jesus’ teachings and way of living;
• lines up their beliefs and values with Jesus.
• You are to mark disciples.
• Baptism is a public statement identifying yourself with your master.
• Submission – your new master has absolute authority over you.
• Surrender – you will give up all you possess and all your plans to follow your master.
• Identification – you are now known as a follower of your master. Acts 2:41; Acts 8:38; Acts 9:18; Acts 16:30-33; Acts 18:8
• You are to mature disciples.
• Teaching that creates people who live in responsive obedience to God’s will.
• The key meaning of disciple is to line up with the master in belief and behavior. 2 Corinthians 3:18; Romans 12:2
• The key method of disciple-making is transformation in community. Acts 2:42-47
• Hindrances to disciple-making:
• Our lecture approach to teaching;
• Our spiritual individualism and privacy approach to community. Galatians 6:1-2
• Christ's presence enables you. (v. 20)

Jesus’ power and presence
will be most strongly felt
wherever disciples are being made.

* Praise God for TFB generosity: in two offerings on Sunday, Jan 17, over $7,000 was given for Haiti relief!