Go Make Disciples—Why, Where, and How? Matthew 28:18–20

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The final words of Jesus recorded in Matthew 28:18–20 are known as the “Great Commission.” These instructions were not given casually, nor were they limited to the eleven apostles who heard them directly. Rather, they constitute a binding command upon all followers of Christ until the end of the age. In these verses, Jesus articulates not only the why of disciple-making, but the where and the how as well—providing a clear framework for Christian ministry in every generation.

“Jesus approached and spoke to them, saying: ‘All authority has been given Me in heaven and on the earth. Go, therefore, and make disciples of people of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit, teaching them to observe all the things I have commanded you. And look! I am with you all the days until the conclusion of the system of things.’” (Matthew 28:18–20)

Why Do We Make Disciples?

Jesus begins with a declaration: “All authority has been given Me in heaven and on the earth.” This authority was granted by Jehovah following Jesus’ death and resurrection (Philippians 2:9–11; Daniel 7:13–14). It encompasses not only power over creation and judgment but also the right to command and direct His followers. This divine authority undergirds the disciple-making commission—it is not merely a suggestion or an optional activity, but a charge issued by the risen Lord, operating under Jehovah’s full endorsement.

To make disciples is to participate in the outworking of God’s purpose: gathering a people for His name, proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom, and preparing faithful ones for eternal life (Acts 15:14; Matthew 24:14). The gravity of Christ’s commission lies in its alignment with Jehovah’s universal objective—to reconcile people to Himself through His Son and to populate the coming Kingdom with those who love righteousness.

Where Do We Make Disciples?

Jesus explicitly states that disciples are to be made “of all the nations.” This was revolutionary for a first-century Jewish audience, who had long viewed covenantal blessing as exclusive to Israel. With this command, Jesus shattered ethnic and geographic boundaries, opening the way for a global proclamation of truth. His words fulfilled prophecies such as Isaiah 49:6, where Jehovah foretold that His Servant would be “a light of nations” to bring salvation to the ends of the earth.

The command to reach all nations is ongoing. As long as humanity exists in diverse cultures and languages, the disciple-making work must continue. Geographic location, economic status, ethnicity, or past religious background are not disqualifiers in the eyes of Christ. The gospel is universal in its scope and impartial in its invitation (Romans 10:12–13; Revelation 14:6).

Thus, our field is the world. Wherever people live—cities, rural areas, impoverished regions, or secular societies—Christ’s disciples are called to go, speak, and teach.

How Do We Teach Others Jesus’ Commands?

Jesus said disciples must be taught to “observe all the things I have commanded you.” This includes not only initial instruction but a sustained process of learning, applying, and obeying His teachings. The verb “observe” (Greek: τηρέω, tēreō) means to keep or guard carefully—it implies both knowledge and faithful obedience. Making disciples is not a matter of mere conversion or baptism, but a lifelong transformation grounded in Jesus’ words (John 8:31–32).

To teach others Christ’s commands faithfully, we must:

Know His teachings well: This requires ongoing study of the Gospels and apostolic writings, where the commands of Jesus are preserved.
Teach accurately and completely: We are not at liberty to omit hard truths or water down Jesus’ words. Commands concerning repentance, humility, forgiveness, morality, and endurance must all be included (Matthew 5–7; Luke 9:23).
Model what we teach: Jesus warned against hypocrisy (Matthew 23:3). Teaching is most effective when it is accompanied by example (1 Corinthians 11:1).

This process often begins with informal conversations, progresses through structured Bible study, and culminates in full Christian obedience expressed through baptism and a life of service.

How Do We Help New Ones Apply Jesus’ Teaching?

New disciples must not only hear Jesus’ commands but be equipped to apply them in daily life. Application is the difference between theoretical belief and actual obedience. As Paul instructed the congregation in Thessalonica, the word of God must be “at work in you believers” (1 Thessalonians 2:13).

Helping new ones apply Jesus’ teachings includes:

Personal mentoring: Just as Jesus patiently trained the twelve, mature Christians today must walk alongside new believers, answering questions, clarifying doubts, and encouraging faith in action (Acts 18:26; 2 Timothy 2:2).
Contextual guidance: Disciples come from diverse backgrounds. Applying Jesus’ words may look different depending on life circumstances. Encouragement must be rooted in truth, yet sensitive to conscience, maturity, and context (Romans 14:1–4).
Practical instruction: Teach by example how to pray, resist temptation, express kindness, manage time, and serve others. Application includes lifestyle changes that reflect a renewed mind (Romans 12:2; Titus 2:11–12).

How Do We Help New Ones Follow Jesus’ Example?

Jesus left us “a model for [us] to follow His steps closely” (1 Peter 2:21). Following Jesus involves more than obeying commands—it includes imitating His attitudes, motivations, and conduct. For new ones, this transition requires clarity and encouragement.

We help them follow Jesus by:

Pointing constantly to Christ: New disciples must learn not merely to emulate human teachers, but to align their lives with the person of Jesus. His humility (Matthew 11:29), courage (John 2:17), mercy (Luke 7:13), and truthfulness (John 18:37) must be at the forefront of Christian formation.
Creating a culture of Christlikeness: Within the congregation, new ones should observe relationships, service, and worship that reflect Jesus. The more the body of Christ reflects the Head, the easier it is for the new to follow Him.
Creating a culture of Christlikeness: Jesus suffered and remained faithful. Discipleship requires a willingness to bear suffering, face rejection, and still walk the narrow road (Matthew 16:24). New believers need reassurance that endurance is possible through God’s help (Hebrews 12:1–3).

Conclusion

The command to “go and make disciples” is not an optional ministry for a few, but the central task of the church under Christ’s authority. We make disciples because Jesus has been given all authority by Jehovah. We go to all nations because His gospel is for everyone. We teach not simply for knowledge, but for obedience to every command Jesus gave. And we walk alongside new ones to help them not only know about Jesus but follow Him with faith and integrity.

This divine commission will continue until the “conclusion of the system of things”—and in every step, Christ promises, “I am with you.” That assurance sustains both the teacher and the student until the work is complete.

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About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).