Speaker: Evangelist John Emmanuel Dickson
Main Text: Matthew 28:19–20 «”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 things that I have commanded you…” — Matthew 28:19–20 (NKJV)»
Introduction
The Great Commission is more than winning souls—it is about making disciples. Jesus did not command His Church to make converts only; He commanded us to make disciples. A convert may make a decision for Christ, but a disciple follows Christ, obeys His Word, grows in faith, and helps others become disciples. One of the greatest needs in the Church today is not merely more professions of faith but mature believers who reflect the character of Christ and faithfully advance His Kingdom.
1. A Disciple Follows Jesus Scripture: Luke 9:23 Jesus said, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” Discipleship begins with surrender. Following Jesus requires obedience, commitment, and a willingness to place Him above personal ambition and comfort.
2. A Disciple Lives by the Word of God Scripture: John 8:31–32 Jesus said, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed.” A disciple is committed to studying, believing, and obeying God’s Word. Spiritual growth is impossible without a consistent relationship with Scripture.
3. A Disciple Bears Fruit Scripture: John 15:5, 8 A true disciple produces spiritual fruit. This includes Christlike character, obedience, love for others, and a passion to lead people to Jesus. Fruitfulness is evidence of a healthy relationship with Christ.
4. A Disciple Makes Other Disciples Scripture: 2 Timothy 2:2 Paul instructed Timothy to entrust God’s truth to faithful people who would teach others also. This is the pattern of biblical discipleship. Every mature believer should be investing in someone else’s spiritual growth.
5. The Cost of Discipleship Scripture: Luke 14:27–33 Following Jesus is not always easy. It requires sacrifice, perseverance, and unwavering commitment. But there is no greater privilege than living as a faithful disciple of Christ. The cost of discipleship is great, but the reward is eternal.
Conclusion
Jesus is not looking for spectators but for committed disciples. The strength of the Church is not measured by attendance but by transformed lives that faithfully follow Christ. As believers, we are called to know Christ, obey His Word, reflect His character, and make disciples wherever God sends us. Call to Action Ask yourself today: – Am I truly following Jesus or simply attending church? – Am I growing daily in God’s Word? – Who am I discipling? – Is my life producing fruit that brings glory to God? Let us commit ourselves to becoming disciples who make disciples until the whole world hears the Gospel and follows Jesus Christ. «”By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.” — John 15:8»