16 Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. 17 And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted. 18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. (Matthew 28:16-20 KJV)
The Great Commission
This evangelist passes over several other post-resurrection appearances of Christ recorded by Luke and John and focuses on this most solemn one, which had been promised repeatedly before his death and after his resurrection. The disciples attended it as appointed (Matthew 28:16). Though it meant a long journey to Galilee, they went, even after already seeing him in Jerusalem, because he had commanded it. They obeyed without objection, demonstrating that those who want to maintain communion with Christ must meet him where he appoints.
This appearance was to be a public and general meeting. Though they had seen him privately, they still gathered with many others. Personal devotion does not excuse absence from public worship when it is possible. The location—a mountain in Galilee—may have been the same where he was transfigured, chosen for its privacy and symbolism of his exaltation.
When they saw Christ (Matthew 28:17), they worshiped him, though some doubted. It was likely the time he appeared to more than five hundred people at once (1 Corinthians 15:6). Some may have initially seen him from a distance and hesitated until he came closer (Matthew 28:18). Even sincere believers may experience doubt, but Christ graciously resolved their uncertainty and strengthened their faith.
Jesus came near and spoke to them. He did not reject those who doubted but confirmed his resurrection and prepared them for the mission he was about to give. As he had approached God on our behalf, now he approached us on God’s behalf, delivering the great charter of his kingdom and commissioning his apostles as ambassadors.
He began by declaring his authority: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (Matthew 28:18). This claim, unique to him, establishes his dominion as Mediator. Though he was always divine and equal with the Father, as Mediator he received this authority both as a reward for his obedience (Philippians 2:9) and as a means to carry out salvation (John 17:2). This power extends over all things—in heaven, he rules over angels (Ephesians 1:20–21) and intercedes with rightful claim; on earth, he draws people to himself and acts as supreme ruler. His statement assures the disciples of his right to commission them and counters any shame they might feel about following the crucified Christ.
He then gave them their commission: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). This command was first to the apostles, Christ’s foundational representatives (Luke 22:30), but it also extends to their successors—the ministers of the gospel who carry the message forward through the ages (Isaiah 59:21; Ephesians 4:11). Their task was to spread out and bring the gospel to all people.
This global commission reveals several things: that the special covenant with the Jews was now opened to the Gentiles; that salvation through Christ is offered to everyone, excluding only those who exclude themselves through unbelief; and that Christianity would eventually influence entire nations and their rulers.
The goal was to make disciples—not to pronounce judgment, but to draw people into Christ’s kingdom, enroll them in his school, and enlist them in his cause. The apostles were to win people for Christ and bless them through the gospel.
To accomplish this, they were first to baptize. This act marked the entrance into the visible church and was to include believers and their children. Baptism was to be administered with water—whether by immersion, pouring, or sprinkling—reflecting prophecies like Isaiah 44:3, Ezekiel 36:25, and Isaiah 52:15.
Baptism was to be in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19). This meant it was by divine authority, invoked with prayer, and signified entry into a covenant relationship. The singular “name” affirms the unity of the Trinity. By being baptized, one professes belief in the triune God and enters an oath of loyalty—renouncing the world and devoting oneself to God. We are baptized into the name of the Father as Creator and Lord, of the Son as Redeemer and King (Acts 8:16; 19:5; Matthew 16:16; John 20:28), and of the Holy Spirit as Sanctifier and Comforter.
Those baptized must be taught to observe everything Christ commanded (Matthew 28:20). Baptism begins the journey of obedience and learning. Christians are bound to make Christ’s commands their rule, obey all his instructions without exception, and not add or subtract from them. Ministers are to teach Christ’s commands, explain them, emphasize obedience, and apply them to real life, helping believers mature in faith (Ephesians 4:11–13).
Finally, Christ gave them assurance: “Look, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). He used “I am”—ego eimi—affirming his divine nature (Revelation 1:8). Though physically departing, he promised his spiritual presence through the Holy Spirit (John 16:7). He would be with them to strengthen, support, and succeed in their work. No matter the obstacles, his presence guaranteed their mission would succeed.
This promise endures to the end of the world. Christ’s presence with his church and ministers is unbroken and constant. Though he may seem hidden at times (Isaiah 45:15), he is never far. His spiritual presence continues with the faithful as long as the gospel is preached and the church exists.