Matthew 28:19-20 Text
King James Version (KJV)
Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 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.
World English Bible (WEB)
Go 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 things that I commanded you. Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.
What Matthew 28:19-20 Means
These closing words of Matthew's Gospel are often called the Great Commission. The main command in the Greek is to make disciples, with going, baptizing, and teaching as the ways it happens. That is why the WEB reads go and make disciples rather than the KJV teach all nations. A disciple is a learner and follower, not just someone who has heard a message. All nations is better understood as all peoples, meaning the invitation goes beyond Israel to everyone. Baptism in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is one of the clearest places where the three are named together. Teaching them to observe everything Jesus commanded shows that discipleship is about practice, not only information. The promise at the end, that Jesus is with them always, is what makes the task bearable.
Context of Matthew 28:19-20
Matthew's Gospel is traditionally attributed to the apostle Matthew and was probably written in the second half of the first century. This passage is the last scene of the book, set on a mountain in Galilee after the resurrection. The eleven remaining disciples meet the risen Jesus, and some still doubt. Just before, he declares that all authority in heaven and earth has been given to him, which is the basis of the command. To read the whole book, see random verse from Matthew.
How to Apply Matthew 28:19-20
You do not need a platform to take part. Being a faithful friend, neighbor, or coworker, explaining your faith when asked, and helping someone grow in it are all ways to live this out. If you feel unqualified, notice that the passage ends with a promise of presence, not a request for perfection.
Related Verses
- Mark 16:15 – And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
- Acts 1:8 – But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judæa, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
- Romans 10:14-15 – How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!
- Isaiah 49:6 – And he said, It is a light thing that thou shouldest be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth.
Looking for more verses on this theme? Browse Bible Verses About Guidance, each with a short note on its context.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20?
It is Jesus' final instruction to his disciples to make disciples of all peoples, baptize them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and teach them to obey his commands, with his promise to be with them always.
Is the Great Commission only for missionaries?
Many Christians believe it applies to the whole church, though people take part differently. Some travel, while others teach, pray, give, or simply live out their faith in daily life. The promise of Jesus' presence is given to everyone who follows.
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