Go and Make Disciples

Matthew 28:16-20

The Big Idea

Jesus calls his followers to help others learn about him and follow his teaching. He promises to be with them always.

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 them 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 closes with the promise that he will be with them always, to the end of the age. This passage presents Jesus as the one who gives the mission and assures his disciples of his continuing presence.

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 gestures outward while the eleven disciples listen, with a globe-like image or widely spaced people used only as a simple symbolic representation of all nations. The focus is on sharing Jesus’ message and welcoming people into discipleship.

Talk together

Talk about it

What did Jesus tell the eleven disciples to do?
How might Jesus’ promise to be with them encourage his followers?

For families, church, and class

Use this page

Use this page to introduce the Great Commission and discuss discipleship in an age-appropriate way. Invite children to notice Jesus’ authority, the call to teach and welcome people, and his promise of continuing presence. Keep the conversation connected to Matthew 28:16–20, without adding later events or naming specific nations.

Source note