How does Acts 5:14 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? Verse Focus Acts 5:14 — “Yet more and more believers were brought to the Lord—large numbers of both men and women.” 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, 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.” Connecting Threads • Promise in Action – Jesus commanded the disciples to “go.” – Acts 5:14 records the tangible fruit of that obedience: multitudes coming to faith. • Universal Reach – “All nations” (Matthew 28:19) is mirrored by “men and women” (Acts 5:14), underscoring the inclusive nature of the gospel. • Disciple-Making Evidenced – The verb “were brought” (Acts 5:14) implies intentional witness; people didn’t drift in randomly. – This matches “make disciples” (Matthew 28:19), showing believers actively leading others to Jesus. • Ongoing Presence of Christ – Jesus promised, “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). – Signs and wonders in Acts 5 (vv. 12, 15-16) display His continuing presence through the Holy Spirit (cf. Acts 1:8). • Growth by God’s Power – Acts 5:14’s increase echoes the pattern: Acts 2:41; 4:4; 6:7. – Paul later affirms, “God gave the growth” (1 Corinthians 3:6-7), reinforcing that the Commission’s success rests on divine enablement. Lessons for Today • Expect Multiplication — When believers proclaim Christ, God adds to the church (Acts 2:47). • Include Everyone — The gospel is for all genders, races, and backgrounds (Galatians 3:28). • Depend on His Presence — Christ’s promised nearness empowers effective witness (John 15:5). • Teach Obedience — New believers need ongoing instruction, just as the apostles modeled (Acts 2:42). Takeaway Summary Acts 5:14 is a snapshot of the Great Commission in motion. The early church, empowered by the risen Christ, faithfully preached, welcomed, and taught, and God multiplied believers just as Jesus said He would. |
    |