Make Disciples: Embracing the Great Commission to Transform Lives

Nov 17

The call to make disciples isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a command from Jesus that lies at the heart of Christian mission. For every follower of Christ, making disciples is an essential part of living a life that reflects God’s love and purpose. Rooted in the words of the Great Commission, this call invites us into God’s ongoing work to redeem and renew, bringing hope, salvation, and love to others. Jesus left this mandate with His disciples—and with us—with the promise that He would be with us always.

In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus commissions His followers, saying, “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.” (NIV)

Through these words, Jesus gives us both the mission and the means to carry it out. The task to “make disciples” was never meant to be carried out in isolation but through the presence and power of Jesus Himself.

Jesus’ command to make disciples is for everyone—not just pastors or leaders but for each of us who follow Him. It’s about sharing the truth of God’s love, extending His invitation to others, and helping them to grow in faith. This mission reaches beyond our local communities, inviting us to think about how we can contribute to spreading the message of Jesus in a global context, among people of all nations and backgrounds.

The Importance of Making Disciples

Jesus’ Heart for the Lost

Jesus’ ministry was marked by a deep love and compassion for those who were lost, searching, or marginalized. In Luke 19:10, He declares, “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” (NIV) As we commit to making disciples, we are aligning ourselves with Jesus’ mission, echoing His compassion for those in need of grace and hope. Making disciples isn’t about numbers or quotas; it’s about loving others enough to introduce them to the one who can truly transform lives. Each person we reach matters profoundly to God.

Reflecting God’s Love to the World

Jesus taught His disciples that love is the defining mark of true followers. In John 13:35, He says, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (NIV) Making disciples goes beyond sharing the gospel in words; it’s about showing God’s love in action. This love invites others to experience the reality of a relationship with Christ and see the power of His grace in our lives. When we genuinely invest in others, we reflect the heart of God in a way that resonates deeply, making the gospel both tangible and transformative.

Building a Legacy of Faith

Discipleship is about creating a legacy of faith that extends beyond our lives. The Apostle Paul’s letters to Timothy highlight the significance of passing on the faith. In 2 Timothy 2:2, Paul instructs Timothy, “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” (NIV) By making disciples, we’re planting seeds of faith that grow and multiply, impacting future generations. This legacy isn’t built through grand gestures but through small, faithful acts of teaching, encouragement, and example.

Biblical Examples of Discipleship

Jesus and His Disciples

Jesus offers the perfect model of discipleship. For three years, He poured into a small group of men, teaching them, sharing life with them, and preparing them for their mission. His disciples were not the religious elite but ordinary individuals who were transformed through a personal relationship with Jesus. His approach was intentional, relational, and rooted in love. Jesus spent time with His disciples, answered their questions, and demonstrated how to live a life dedicated to God. This relational discipleship model invites us to make disciples not by presenting a set of rules but by living alongside others, guiding them in faith and truth.

Paul and Timothy

Paul’s relationship with Timothy gives us another beautiful example of discipleship in action. Paul invested in Timothy, teaching and encouraging him to grow in faith and live out his calling. Paul often referred to Timothy as his “son” in the faith, underscoring the depth of their connection. In 1 Corinthians 11:1, Paul urges, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” (NIV) Paul didn’t merely tell Timothy what to do; he modeled a life committed to Christ. His mentorship reminds us that discipleship requires time, commitment, and a willingness to share not only our faith but our lives.

Practical Ways to Live Out the Great Commission

While making disciples might seem daunting, it begins with simple, intentional actions that create opportunities for faith to grow.

Invest in Relationships

Building meaningful relationships is essential in discipleship. When we take the time to know people, listen to their stories, and understand their struggles, we create a foundation for genuine discipleship. Jesus’ approach was relational; He met people where they were, whether it was the woman at the well, Zacchaeus the tax collector, or Nicodemus the Pharisee. Start by reaching out to those around you, showing interest in their lives, and demonstrating Christ’s love through your actions.

Teach by Example

Discipleship often involves more than teaching words; it’s about showing a Christlike life in action. The early church believers devoted themselves not just to preaching but to living in community, learning and growing together. Acts 2:42 says, “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” (NIV) When others see us living out our faith daily, they’re inspired to seek the same relationship with Jesus. Your everyday actions—your kindness, patience, and integrity—speak volumes about the reality of your faith.

Be Ready to Share the Gospel

Peter reminds us in 1 Peter 3:15, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” (NIV) Look for opportunities to share your faith with others, whether they arise in casual conversations, during times of need, or through intentional moments. Sharing the gospel doesn’t have to be complicated; it’s about telling others how Jesus has changed your life and why He’s the hope that sustains you. Trust that God will work through your words and that the Holy Spirit will guide you as you share.

Pray for Opportunities and Boldness

Prayer is a critical component of discipleship. Pray for God to bring people into your life who are open to hearing the gospel and for the courage to share when the opportunity arises. Jesus encouraged His followers in Matthew 9:38 to “Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” (NIV) As we seek to make disciples, we must rely on prayer to lead us, prepare hearts, and give us the boldness to step out in faith.

Action Steps for Making Disciples

Build Intentional Relationships: Begin by identifying one or two people in your life with whom you can regularly connect, encourage, and pray for. Meet with them over coffee, invite them to a small group, or simply spend time together discussing life and faith.
Strengthen Your Own Faith: Cultivate a personal relationship with Jesus through daily prayer, Bible reading, and engaging in your local church community. Your own growth will inspire others and equip you to disciple with authenticity and depth.
Practice the Great Commission in Your Community: Look for local opportunities to serve, whether through volunteering, joining church outreach programs, or simply being present in your community. Live out your faith in ways that draw others to the love of Christ.
Take Time to Listen and Learn: Commit to continually learning about God’s Word, discipleship practices, and the needs of those around you. By understanding more about your faith, you’ll be better prepared to support and encourage others on their journey.
Pray for Boldness and Trust God: Making disciples can sometimes feel intimidating, but remember that God equips those He calls. Pray for courage to step out of your comfort zone and trust that Jesus is with you every step of the way.

Further Resources

The Master Plan of Evangelism by Robert E. Coleman – A timeless resource that outlines Jesus’ method of discipleship.
Multiply: Disciples Making Disciples by Francis Chan – A practical guide to the basics of discipleship, filled with biblical insights and discussion questions.