How does Acts 20:21 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? Setting the Scene Acts 20:21: “testifying to Jews and Greeks alike about repentance to God and faith in our Lord Jesus.” 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, 20 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.” Shared Heartbeat • Both passages spotlight the same two essentials: turning to God (repentance) and trusting Christ (faith). • Each commands a universal audience—“Jews and Greeks” parallels “all nations.” • Baptism in Matthew flows naturally from the faith/repentance Paul proclaims in Acts. • Teaching obedience (Matthew) corresponds to Paul’s lifelong pattern of discipling (cf. Acts 20:27; 2 Timothy 2:2). Wider Canon Echoes • Mark 1:15—Jesus starts His ministry with “repent and believe.” • Luke 24:47—“repentance for forgiveness…to all nations.” • Romans 10:9-15—faith proclaimed so all may call on the Lord. • Colossians 1:28—“We proclaim Him…teaching everyone.” Practical Takeaways 1. Gospel content is non-negotiable: repentance + faith. 2. Our audience is everyone God puts in front of us. 3. Baptism and ongoing teaching are not add-ons; they complete the disciple-making cycle. 4. The same Jesus who commands also accompanies—“I am with you always.” Living It Out Today • Speak plainly about sin and the need to turn to God. • Present Christ as the only Savior, calling for personal trust. • Invite new believers to baptism quickly (Acts 2:38; 8:36). • Invest long-term in teaching Scripture, helping disciples obey all He commanded. |
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