GREAT COMMISSION Meaning and
Definition
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The term "Great Commission" refers to a significant biblical directive given by Jesus Christ to his disciples towards the end of his earthly ministry. The Great Commission represents a specific command to his followers to spread the teachings of Christianity throughout the world. The term itself is derived from a passage in the New Testament Gospel according to Matthew, chapter 28, verses 18-20.
In these verses, Jesus states, "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." This command is often seen as a call to evangelism and the establishment of the Christian faith on a global scale.
The Great Commission emphasizes the importance of sharing the message of Christ's salvation with people of all nations, cultures, and languages. It encourages believers to actively participate in the expansion of Christianity by spreading the gospel, baptizing new converts, and instructing them in the teachings of Jesus. This commission also underlines the significance of discipleship and the ongoing process of teaching and mentorship that should accompany the act of making new followers of Christ.
Overall, the Great Commission serves as a guiding principle for Christians, urging them to actively engage in the proclamation of the Christian faith, with the goal of influencing hearts and minds to embrace the message of salvation through Jesus Christ.
Etymology of GREAT COMMISSION
The term "Great Commission" is derived from the Bible, specifically the New Testament in Christian scripture. It refers to the instructions and commandment given by Jesus Christ to His disciples before His ascension into heaven. The term itself is not directly derived from any particular language or source outside of the biblical context. It has its origins in the English translation of the Greek phrase "τὴν ἀρχὴν μαθητεύσατε πάντα τὰ ἔθνη" (tēn archēn mathēteusate panta ta ethne), found in the Gospel of Matthew 28:16-20. This phrase has been translated variously as "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations", "Go and make disciples of all nations", or "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations".
