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, Mark 16, Luke 24, John 20-21, and Acts 1

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 28:19-20

Day 321 of my chronological study of the Bible with The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) (available by purchase through Amazon - author F. LaGard Smith) continues as I move further into the New Testament - this morning focusing on the resurrection and Jesus appearances during the resurrection period. This morning's scripture reading extends into Acts where Jesus, after the resurrection ascends into Heaven and Matthias is chosen to replace Judas as one of "The Twelve".  My commentary* captures in John how, together, all of the gospel accounts serve so "you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name" (John 20:31).

*Smith, F. LaGard. The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®). Harvest House Publishers. Kindle Edition. 

Jesus also gives the disciples a mission - "The Great Commission" (Matthew 28) and He tells them that they will have power in this mission. 

Many have perspectives on what the Great Commission means to believers, including who goes into the missionary field.  Tony Merida has what I believe a very useful perspective for all believers in that we don't have to be "super-Christians" to be the hands and feet of Jesus in our own local community and at home.  We demonstrate the power of Christ by consistently doing the things Jesus asks us to do, and these are ordinary acts of justice, love, hospitality, care, advocacy, and humility.  Check out his book and this video.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You have sent others to bring me the gospel and I am grateful!  There were many in my path who brought Jesus to me and without these others I would not have You.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of how You brought the Good News into my life.  My sin continues...worry, etc.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.