Jesus Promises to Be With Them

Matthew 28:16-20

The Big Idea

Jesus gives his followers important work and assures them that he will be with them always. We can learn from him, follow his commands, and share his message with others.

The Bible Story

The Great Commission

Matthew 28:16–20 describes the risen Jesus meeting the eleven disciples on a mountain in Galilee. When they see him, they worship him, though some doubt. Jesus declares that all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to him. He commands the disciples to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He also tells them to teach people to obey everything he has commanded. Jesus ends with a promise: he will be with them always, to the end of the age. This passage presents Jesus’ authority, the disciples’ mission, and his continuing presence together. It does not explain how Jesus will be present or describe a later fulfillment of the commission.

Themes

All nations Baptism in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit Jesus’ authority Jesus’ continuing presence Making disciples Teaching obedience to Jesus’ commands

Bible moment

The Bible moment

Look closely

What children can notice

Jesus stands near the eleven disciples in a reassuring pose as they gather around him on the mountain. A broad sky extending beyond the frame can suggest the promise’s enduring scope without specifying a method or timeline.

Talk together

Talk about it

What work did Jesus give the eleven disciples?
How might Jesus’ promise encourage his followers?

For families, church, and class

Use this page

Use this page to discuss Jesus’ authority, the calling to make disciples, baptism, teaching obedience, and Jesus’ continuing presence. Invite children to notice that the disciples respond with both worship and doubt. Keep the focus on Matthew 28:16–20, and do not add a specific method, timeline, later fulfillment, or events from Acts or other Gospel accounts.

Source note