How does Acts 16:32 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20?

Acts 16:32 and the Great Commission Side by Side

“Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all the others in his house.” (Acts 16:32)

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them … teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:19-20)

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Key Parallels

• Same message: “the word of the Lord” (Acts 16:32) = “all that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:20).

• Same mission: Move toward people with the gospel (“spoke … to all in his house” / “go and make disciples”).

• Same goal: Discipleship, not mere information—belief that leads to obedience (cf. Acts 16:33-34; John 8:31).

• Same method: Verbal proclamation (“spoke … word”) plus follow-up instruction (“teaching them”).

• Same scope: Begins at home yet reaches “all nations”—the Philippian jailer’s household is a microcosm of the wider mission.

• Same authority and presence: Paul and Silas act under Christ’s commission; Jesus promises, “I am with you always.”

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Living Out the Commission in Everyday Settings

• Start where God places you—family, workplace, neighborhood (Acts 1:8; 1 Peter 3:15).

• Share the gospel plainly; Scripture itself carries power (Romans 1:16; Hebrews 4:12).

• Expect measurable steps of obedience—faith, baptism, ongoing learning (Acts 16:33; 2 Timothy 2:2).

• Trust Christ’s continual presence; His command is paired with His companionship (Matthew 28:20b).

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Strengthening Our Confidence

Acts 16 proves the Great Commission is already in motion in the New Testament record. What Jesus commanded, the apostles practiced. That same unbroken chain reaches us today (Colossians 1:28-29), assuring us that when we speak the Word as they did, the Lord Himself is still at work, saving households and nations alike.