The Great Commission Is Recorded 10 Times In The Bible

The Great Commission: Echoes Across Scripture – Exploring Its Tenfold Repetition

The Great Commission, the charge given by Jesus to his disciples to spread the Gospel to all nations, is a cornerstone of Christian faith and missionary endeavor. While often cited from Matthew 28:18-20, many believe the essence of this command resonates throughout the scriptures, appearing in various forms and contexts. This article delves into the argument that the Great Commission is recorded, not just once, but at least ten times throughout the New Testament, highlighting the multifaceted nature of this crucial mandate. We'll explore these instances, examining their specific wording, context, and the implications for understanding the breadth and depth of our mission as believers.

The Tenfold Echo: Identifying the Great Commission's Recurring Themes

While Matthew 28:18-20 represents the most commonly quoted passage, the core message of proclaiming the Gospel to all creation and making disciples is echoed repeatedly. Let's explore ten key passages often considered echoes or manifestations of the Great Commission:

1. Matthew 28:18-20: The Canonical Great Commission

This passage is the bedrock of the Great Commission discussion. Jesus, after his resurrection, empowers his disciples with authority, commanding them to: "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” This text clearly outlines the three key components: making disciples, baptizing, and teaching obedience to Christ's commands. The promise of Jesus' continuous presence provides assurance and strength for this daunting task.

2. Matthew 10:5-42: Commissioning the Twelve

Earlier in Matthew's Gospel, Jesus commissions the twelve apostles. While not identical in wording, this passage includes the core mandate to preach the kingdom of God and heal the sick. "Go nowhere among the Gentiles, and enter no town of the Samaritans, but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And as you go, preach, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’" (Matthew 10:5-7). This demonstrates an initial focus on Israel, but the underlying commission to preach the gospel is undeniably present. The subsequent verses (Matthew 10:16-42) focus on the challenges and rewards of this mission, illustrating the inherent difficulties and spiritual preparation required.

3. Luke 9:1-6: Sending Out the Seventy-Two

Luke's Gospel recounts Jesus sending out seventy-two disciples, with instructions strikingly similar to those given to the twelve. "And he called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to preach the kingdom of God and to heal." (Luke 9:1-2). This expansion of the mission highlights the urgency and the need for many workers to join in the harvest. It reinforces the importance of both preaching the Gospel and demonstrating God's power through healings and miracles.

4. Luke 10:1-16: The Parable of the Good Samaritan & its Implications

While not explicitly a "go and preach" command, the parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10 illustrates the compassionate heart required for fulfilling the Great Commission. The command to "go and do likewise" after hearing the story can be interpreted as an extension of the Great Commission – to actively love and serve others as a demonstration of the Gospel's transformative power. It emphasizes the practical application of faith in reaching out to those in need.

5. Mark 16:15-20: The Commission to the Eleven

Mark's account of the Great Commission is slightly different but equally impactful. "And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.” (Mark 16:15). This concise phrasing underscores the global scope of the mission. The subsequent verses detail the signs that will accompany believers as they carry out this commission, emphasizing the power of the Holy Spirit in their work.

6. Acts 1:8: The Promise of the Holy Spirit and Global Reach

This verse acts as a prelude to the fulfillment of the Great Commission. Jesus, before his ascension, instructs his disciples: "But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you shall be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." This passage defines the geographical scope of the mission—from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth, and highlights the empowering role of the Holy Spirit.

7. Acts 13:1-3: The Sending of Barnabas and Saul

The commissioning of Paul and Barnabas for their missionary journeys in Acts 13:1-3 functions as a practical application of the Great Commission. The Holy Spirit's direct guidance in selecting and sending them underscores the divine initiative in the global expansion of the Gospel. Their journey exemplifies the fulfillment of the Great Commission through active outreach and establishing churches.

8. Acts 1:8: The Fulfillment of Acts 1:8

The book of Acts serves as a detailed account of the fulfillment of Jesus's promise in Acts 1:8. The early church's expansion from Jerusalem to the far reaches of the Roman Empire demonstrates the obedience and courage of believers in carrying out the Great Commission. The narratives of Peter, Paul, and other missionaries serve as inspiring examples for modern-day Christians.

9. Romans 10:14-15: The Call to Proclamation

Paul’s emphasis in Romans 10:14-15 focuses on the critical role of proclamation in achieving salvation. "How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching?" This passage stresses the necessity of actively sharing the Gospel, highlighting the crucial role of preaching in reaching the lost.

10. Colossians 1:28-29: Paul's Ministry as a Model

Paul, in his letter to the Colossians, describes his own ministry as a model for fulfilling the Great Commission: "Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ." This passage demonstrates the diligent teaching and warning, crucial elements for building strong Christian communities and carrying out the lasting aspects of disciple-making.

The Holistic Nature of the Great Commission: More Than Just Evangelism

It's crucial to understand that the Great Commission is not merely a one-time event or a singular act of evangelism. It’s a holistic approach to Christian living that encompasses:

• Evangelism: Proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ to all people.
• Discipleship: Mentoring and teaching new believers to follow Jesus Christ.
• Church Planting: Establishing local communities of faith where believers can grow and worship.
• Social Justice: Addressing the needs of the poor and marginalized, reflecting the love and compassion of Christ.
• Global Mission: Taking the Gospel to every nation and people group.

The Ongoing Relevance of the Great Commission Today

The repeated emphasis on the Great Commission throughout scripture underscores its enduring relevance for Christians today. In a world facing complex challenges, the message of hope, reconciliation, and transformation offered by Jesus is more vital than ever. The echoes of the Great Commission call us to:

• Pray for missionaries: Support those actively engaged in spreading the Gospel globally.
• Engage in personal evangelism: Share your faith with friends, family, and colleagues.
• Support missions organizations: Contribute financially and through volunteering.
• Live a life of service: Demonstrate Christ's love through acts of kindness and compassion.
• Be a lifelong learner: Continuously deepen your understanding of scripture and the Gospel.

The tenfold echo of the Great Commission should inspire and challenge us to embrace this transformative mission. It’s a call not just to preach, but to live out the Gospel in every aspect of our lives, transforming the world, one heart, one community, and one nation at a time. The consistent repetition throughout Scripture demonstrates the profound importance and enduring nature of this divine command. It is a call to action that transcends time and culture, urging believers to participate in God’s redemptive plan for all creation.