Go and make disciples of all nations — the Great Commission.
Jesus' marching orders to his followers, given right before he ascended. What he actually asked for.
The episode in a glance.
- 01'Go' is a participle — 'as you go,' built into ordinary life.
- 02'Make disciples' — not just converts; apprentices.
- 03'Of all nations' — every ethnic group, not just one.
- 04Baptism and teaching are the two means.
Read along.
Just before ascending, Jesus told his disciples: '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.'
'Go' in Greek is actually a participle — closer to 'as you go.' Mission isn't just for missionaries. It's built into ordinary life — where you live, work, study, parent.
'Make disciples' is the main verb. Not 'make decisions' or 'win converts.' A disciple is an apprentice — someone learning to live the way Jesus lives. That takes time and relationship.
'Of all nations' — the Greek word is ethne, ethnic groups. Not just one tribe. Every people group on the planet is in view.
And the means: baptism (the public marker that you belong to Jesus) and teaching (the slow work of learning his way of life). That's the whole assignment, until he comes back.