What does it mean to make disciples of all nations? This question lies at the heart of the Great Commission in Matthew 28. Pastor Mark Dever explains that this mission extends beyond individual evangelism—it is a call to plant and nurture churches where the gospel is proclaimed, believers are baptised, and disciples are taught to obey Christ’s commands. The Great Commission is, therefore, inseparable from the life of the local church.

In his talk at GCN’s Gospel Community Conference in October 2023, Dever raises six crucial questions to help us reflect on this calling. These questions deepen our understanding of the mission and anchor us in the power of the gospel community—the local church.

 

1. How are we to fulfil the Great Commission?

While individual evangelism and discipleship are vital, the Great Commission is ultimately fulfilled through the work of the local church. Mark Dever highlights that churchless evangelism leaves new converts “unhealthy and exposed.” The local church, as God’s chosen instrument, provides the context where disciples are baptised, taught to obey Christ, and nurtured in their faith.

The imperative “make disciples” in Matthew 28 is supported by participles—going, baptising, and teaching. These actions highlight the central role of the church, where disciples are made, identified through baptism, and continually taught to obey Christ’s commands. The church is not peripheral to the Great Commission; it is essential to its fulfilment.

Dever explains, “The exalted Christ doesn’t simply issue orders that all should come to him, but he sends his messengers out to find them.” This outward movement reflects a profound truth: just as God took the initiative in seeking us through Christ, so the church embodies His grace by going out to reach others.

 

2. What is the big picture?

The Great Commission isn’t an isolated directive; it’s part of God’s grand narrative from Genesis to Revelation. From the beginning, God has worked through His people, through the family of Abraham and later through the nation of Israel. This corporate pattern continues with the church, which represents the fulfilment of His promise to bless all nations through Abraham’s offspring.

Revelation 7:9 provides a glimpse of the Great Commission accomplished—a multitude from every tribe, tongue, and nation worshipping before the throne of God. The Great Commission bridges the gap between the beginning of God’s plan and its ultimate fulfilment, calling the church to play an active role in this redemptive story.

 

3. What has God done?

The church is fundamentally the work of God. Jesus established it, purchased it with His blood, and promised to build it (Matthew 16:18; Acts 20:28). Through His Spirit, He equips the church with gifts, unites believers into one body, and sustains its mission. This divine foundation gives the church its authority and purpose.

God’s faithfulness to His promises is evident throughout Scripture. Just as He fulfilled His promises to Abraham and Israel, He will fulfil His promise to bring the gospel to all nations through the church. This assurance empowers us to persevere in the mission, trusting in His sovereignty and provision.

 

4. What did the apostles understand about the Great Commission?

The apostles, who first heard Jesus’ command, understood the Great Commission as a call to plant new churches and strengthen existing ones. The book of Acts chronicles their efforts to plant churches in cities like Jerusalem, Antioch, and Corinth. Their letters reveal a deep concern for the health and growth of these congregations.

Paul, in particular, was deeply committed to seeing churches thrive, repeatedly visiting, writing to, and praying for them. He also urged believers to support this mission. In 3 John, a rebuke is issued against Diotrephes, who refused to welcome travelling missionaries and even hindered others from helping them. This underscores the importance of aiding those sent out to plant and strengthen churches. The apostles’ actions and teachings make it clear: the Great Commission is not only about individual evangelism but about building gospel-centred communities that testify to the power of Christ through their shared life and mission.

 

5. What does the Great Commission mean for us today?

Dever asks a practical and urgent question: what does the Great Commission mean for us in our time? His reflections offer several points of application for churches and individual believers:

• • Focus on Church Planting: The Great Commission calls us to prioritise planting healthy, gospel-centred churches. This requires intentional effort and long-term commitment, as new congregations take root and grow.
  • Be Willing to Send Your Best: Churches must be willing to send out their most gifted and faithful members to establish and strengthen other congregations. This sacrifice reflects a kingdom-minded approach to ministry.
• • Train Leaders: Equip members to understand the nature and mission of the church. Provide theological training and practical skills to prepare them for leadership roles.
  • Support Church Planters: Financial, spiritual, and logistical support are essential for sustaining church planters and their families. Churches should commit to walking alongside them until the new congregation is self-sufficient.
  • Foster a Culture of Kingdom Growth: Cultivate a church culture that celebrates the spread of the gospel, both locally and globally. Pray regularly for the growth of Christ’s kingdom and rejoice in the success of other gospel-preaching churches.
  • Encourage Other Churches: Partner with and encourage neighbouring churches, viewing them as allies rather than competitors. Pray for their ministries and celebrate their growth.
  • Revitalise Declining Churches: Look for opportunities to assist struggling congregations, whether through leadership, resources, or membership transfers. Revitalization efforts can breathe new life into churches with rich histories and untapped potential.
  • Pray for the Spread of the Gospel: Make prayer for the global church a regular part of both personal and corporate worship. Intercede for church planters, missionaries, and persecuted believers around the world.

6. What is the goal in fulfilling the Great Commission?

The ultimate goal of the Great Commission is for the glory of God through His church. Mark Dever describes the church as “the gospel made visible,” where God’s character, wisdom, and power are displayed for all to see. When the church fulfils its mission faithfully, it reflects the beauty of Christ and calls others to Him.

This is our privilege as His people. Planting, nurturing, and supporting churches is not just a task—it is participation in God’s grand plan of redemption. Through the church, we bear witness to His promises and His faithfulness. The Great Commission reminds us that we are part of something far greater than ourselves. And as we take up this mission, we do so with the assurance of Christ’s presence: He is with us, always, to the very end of the age.