Episode 904: I am with you always

In chapter 28:18-20, we read of the great commission that Jesus gave His disciples-and to us. The basis of the great commission is that all authority in heaven and earth has been given to our Lord. We should not go out to make disciples if we are not convinced that our Lord rules heaven and earth with absolute authority. We don't go to make disciples because there is a need somewhere or because someone urged us to go, but because Jesus Christ has all authority in heaven and earth and He commands us to go.
The great commission is very clear. First: Go. Then, make disciples, Then baptize them. Then, spend the rest of the time teaching them to obey everything Jesus commanded. This great commission is surrounded on either side by a statement and a promise. First, “All authority is given to the Lord Jesus.” And at the end, “I am with you always unto the end of the age.”
Many like to claim that promise of the Lord, “Lo, I am with you always.” But to whom was it given? It was given only to those who go and make disciples, and then teach them to obey ALL that Jesus commanded (28:19-20)-and not to believers who go here and there to make money. Such believers cannot claim that promise. But if you seek to make disciples everywhere you go, then you claim the promise that the Lord will be with you always.