How does Acts 14:7 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? Setting the Scene Paul and Barnabas have just escaped violent opposition in Iconium (Acts 14:1-6). Rather than retreat, they head into the Lycaonian cities and “double-down” on the assignment Jesus gave every disciple. The Command: Matthew 28:19-20 “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Obedience in Action: Acts 14:7 “and there they continued to preach the gospel.” Key Connections Between the Two Passages • Same mandate, different geography – Matthew presents the global commission; Acts 14:7 shows it being carried out in a new region. • “Go” means movement – Paul and Barnabas literally travel (Acts 14:6-7), embodying Jesus’ “go” (Matthew 28:19). • Centrality of the gospel message – Jesus says “make disciples”; Paul and Barnabas “preach the gospel,” the first step in disciple-making (cf. Romans 10:14-15). • Teaching obedience – The rest of Acts 14 records Paul strengthening believers (v. 22), echoing “teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you.” • Christ’s promised presence – In Matthew 28:20 Jesus promises, “I am with you always.” In Acts, His presence is manifest through signs (Acts 14:3) and perseverance amid persecution (vv. 19-20). • Universal scope – Matthew targets “all nations.” Acts 14 extends the gospel to Gentile territories, fulfilling that breadth (cf. Acts 1:8). What This Teaches Us About Mission Today • The Great Commission is not theory; it is a continuing narrative we step into. • Opposition is normal (Acts 14:5, 19) but never an excuse to quit the work. • Evangelism and discipleship belong together—proclaim the gospel and then ground believers in truth (Acts 14:21-22). • God’s presence empowers obedience; we rely on His promise, not our resources (Matthew 28:20; 2 Timothy 4:17). • Geographic and cultural boundaries are opportunities, not obstacles (Mark 16:15). Putting It Into Practice • Keep the message clear: salvation through Christ alone (Romans 1:16). • View every relocation, job change, or life transition as a “Lycaonia” where the gospel can be proclaimed. • Pair proclamation with patient teaching, helping new believers grow in obedience. • Expect God’s enabling presence, especially when circumstances are hostile. |
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