The Great Commission or the Great Charge

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising 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.”            Matthew 28:19–20 (ESV)

Yesterday morning I met up with my partners who are concentrating on Nepal and during the conversation one of them remarked that the Great Commission is more like a Charge than anything else.

1.     More than a Commission – It’s a Charge

We often call this passage “The Great Commission,” and rightly so. It is the marching orders of the Church.  The Great Commission is not just a concluding remark, it is the heartbeat of Jesus’ earthly ministry and the ongoing mission of the Church. Its presence in all four Gospels and in the Book of Acts highlights its central and enduring significance. 

A commission is a task or responsibility given, often with authority to act. It’s like being entrusted with a mission. It can be understood more as a delegated duty. Implies assignment with empowerment (e.g., “Go and make disciples”) 

But consider this: Jesus did not merely delegate a task—He issued a charge. A charge is an authoritative order with personal accountability. It is non-optional, urgent, and binding.

When a king sends a herald with a decree, the message is not open to interpretation or delay. In the same way, the risen Christ—the King of kings—issues a global charge to His followers: Go. Make disciples. Baptise. Teach.

2.     The Charge is for Everyone

Jesus didn’t say, “Some of you go,” or “You who feel called.” The verbs are all plural. The command is universal. Every Christian is charged to go—whether across the street or across the sea. Every Christian is charged to disciple—whether in a Sunday school, a home, a café, or online. Every Christian is charged to speak truth—baptising, teaching, and proclaiming the message of salvation.

This is not the job of pastors or missionaries alone. It is the lifestyle of every believer.

3.     How should we fulfil this charge?

The charge is not to be fulfilled by human strength or clever methods, but through divine enabling. The Book of Acts is a testimony to how ordinary people, empowered by the Spirit, turned the world upside down.

a) By living a sent life. Understand that we are always on mission. Whether you’re a student, professional, parent, or retiree—we are sent by Jesus into your context. Every conversation, relationship, and opportunity is part of your calling.

“As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” — John 20:21

b) By starting where we are.  You don’t need a platform—you need obedience. Start with: your family – be a witness of grace,  your workplace or school – bring integrity and hope, your community – share your story, show hospitality, pray boldly.

c) By being equipped. Jesus promised: “I am with you always.” We are not sent in our own strength. Pray for boldness and opportunities, study the Word so you can share truth and partner with the Church—don’t go alone.

d) By obeying urgently. There is urgency in this charge. We cannot delay. Souls are perishing daily, and the message of the Gospel is their only hope.

“The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.” — Matthew 9:37

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for the privilege and responsibility of carrying Your message. Forgive me for treating Your command lightly. Help me to live with urgency, compassion, and courage. Show me today who I can reach with Your truth. Empower me with Your Spirit to obey this great charge. In Your name, Amen.