How does Acts 17:6 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? Setting the Scene: The Charge in Acts 17:6 “When they could not find them, they dragged Jason and some brothers before the city officials, shouting, ‘These men who have turned the world upside down have now come here also,’” (Acts 17:6). • Thessalonian officials accuse Paul and Silas of destabilizing the social order. • The phrase “turned the world upside down” signals widespread, unmistakable impact. • The gospel’s reach is already trans-regional only a few decades after Jesus’ resurrection. The Great Commission Mandate “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) • Jesus’ final directive is outward-facing: “all nations.” • The command rests on His authority (“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me,” v. 18). • Ongoing presence (“I am with you always”) empowers continual expansion. Direct Links Between Matthew 28 and Acts 17 • Obedience in Action: The disciples who heard Matthew 28 personally are the missionaries in Acts. • Geographic Spread: Matthew 28 envisions global reach; Acts records the step-by-step fulfillment (cf. Acts 1:8). • Measurable Results: By Acts 17, hostile authorities acknowledge the gospel’s sweeping effect—evidence that the Commission is advancing. • Disciple-Making Pattern: Paul’s practice mirrors Jesus’ instruction—evangelize, baptize (Acts 16:33), teach (Acts 17:2-3). Turning the World Upside Down—A Natural Outcome of Gospel Obedience • Spiritual Authority Challenges Earthly Powers (Acts 17:7; Colossians 1:13). • New Allegiance to Jesus Reorders Personal and Civic Life (2 Corinthians 5:17). • Worldwide Scope Matches Jesus’ Promise (“to the end of the earth,” Acts 1:8). Snapshot of Early Church Strategy Fulfilling the Commission 1. Go: Paul and companions travel along Roman roads (Acts 13–28). 2. Proclaim: Preach Christ crucified and risen (Acts 17:3). 3. Gather: Form local assemblies (Acts 17:4). 4. Ground: Teach Scripture daily (Acts 17:11). 5. Multiply: Appoint leaders and move on, trusting the Spirit (Acts 14:23). Encouragement for Modern Disciples • The same Commission stands—making disciples still “turns the world upside down.” • Christ’s promised presence ensures effectiveness, whether across the street or across the globe. • Measuring success biblically means transformed lives and communities, not mere numbers or acceptance. Acts 17:6 is the on-the-ground proof that Matthew 28:19-20 works exactly as Jesus said—ordinary believers, armed with the gospel and the Spirit, can reshape the world. |
    |