How does Acts 15:4 connect to the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? Setting the Scene in Acts 15:4 “On their arrival in Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church and the apostles and elders, and they reported all that God had done through them.” (Acts 15:4) The Great Commission Stated “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, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20) How Acts 15:4 Echoes the Great Commission • Go and Tell → “they reported all that God had done” • To All Nations → reports centered on Gentile conversions (Acts 14:27; 15:3) • Make Disciples → evidence of genuine faith, new churches planted (Acts 14:21-23) • Baptize and Teach → Paul and Barnabas had baptized and established elders, ensuring ongoing instruction (Acts 13-14) • Christ’s Presence → the success is credited to what “God had done,” fulfilling Jesus’ promise, “I am with you always” Commission Fruit on Display in Acts 15 1. Missionary Journey Reviewed—Paul and Barnabas recount specific conversions and miracles (Acts 15:12). 2. Jerusalem Welcomes the Report—apostles and elders authenticate the Gentile mission, showing unity around the Commission. 3. Doctrinal Clarity Secured—the council’s letter (Acts 15:23-29) removes barriers, freeing the gospel to move unhindered to “all nations.” Key Takeaways for Us • Celebrate Testimonies—regularly share “all that God has done” to stir faith and obedience. • Guard Gospel Freedom—like the council, protect the simple message of grace so every culture can receive it. • Stay Commission-Focused—our structures and gatherings, like Jerusalem’s, should exist to advance disciple-making worldwide. Supporting Texts • Acts 1:8—“You will be My witnesses…to the ends of the earth.” • Mark 16:15—“Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” • Romans 15:18-19—Paul recounts what Christ accomplished “through me” among the Gentiles. |
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