The Great "Omission"

Then the eleven disciples left for Galilee, going to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him—but some of them doubted! Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:16-20.

 This well known verse, the last earthly words of Jesus, have become known as “The Great Commission”.  It is, in essence, our marching orders, not only for the early church and the disciples, but for everyone one of us since. Sadly, I think that the significance of those words has been lost over the centuries.  Look at those verses carefully.  Even at the get go, when the eleven went to the mountain, where Jesus ascended to heaven, it says they worshiped him, but some doubted! How could that be?  Men who had been with Jesus for the past 3 years; hearing his words, seeing the miracles and witnessing his death and resurrection, and yet some of them doubted? One thing is for sure, Matthew wanted us to know that the disciples were human.  I’m sure he knew that every follower, from that day on would have moments of uncertainty and doubt.  Jesus continues by rallying the troops to action; God-authorized, detailed action and finishes with the sublime encouragement that He would be with them/us always.  How would  I have reacted, if I’d been there on that hill?  How would you?

 We know that the church grew, so apparently human doubt was overcome by the words of Jesus. 2000+ years have passed, and our responsibility to fulfill the Great Commission is still in effect.  Are you on board?  It seems to me, that many Christians are afraid, unprepared or unwilling to spread the good news. Remember, we have all been commissioned, authorized, and given the ability to continue the work of Christ.  It is, and always will be “The Great Commission”, not  The Great “Omission”.