Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Marching Orders
(Matthew 28:16-20)
After Christ’s resurrection, the disciples expressed great interest in His establishing His promised earthly kingdom (Acts 1:6). Jesus, however, directed His disciples to the great task of preaching the Gospel to the entire world. The kingdom would have to wait; the church (a “mystery” revealed fully by Paul) received her marching orders—“Go ye therefore and teach all nations…” (Mt. 28:19).
In the ensuing years nothing has changed about Christ’s marching orders for the church. Generations have come and gone, and the primary responsibility is the same, “Preach the Gospel to every creature” (Mk 16:15). The 11 disciples having long ago passed into glory, the responsibility of Gospel work falls squarely upon the shoulders of the church of today.
It’s a shame to consider how little churches are really involved in Great Commission work. Some hide their pusillanimity toward soulwinning by boasting of big missions programs. While foreign missions are vital, sending missionaries does not alleviate the church of her Gospel duties back home.
Genuine church ministry, then, is characterized by an emphasis on boldly reaching the community for Christ. Churches may have other programs, but no emphasis should overshadow the priority placed on winning the. Our mission field is our backyard; and our marching orders are the same—“Preach the Gospel to every creature.”
