How does Acts 5:42 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? Texts in Focus Acts 5:42: “Every day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ.” 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, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Connecting Threads • Unbroken continuity—what Jesus commanded, the apostles are already living out. • Same two arenas of ministry: – Public (“temple courts”) mirrors “all nations.” – Private (“house to house”) echoes the personal discipling implied in “teach them to observe.” • Focus on Christ: “Jesus is the Christ” fulfills “baptizing…in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” • Teaching-centered: both passages place instruction at the core of disciple-making. • Daily persistence: “every day” embodies the ongoing promise “I am with you always.” From Mandate to Momentum 1. Commission given (Matthew 28:19-20). 2. Power promised (Acts 1:8). 3. Spirit poured out (Acts 2:1-4). 4. Commission practiced (Acts 5:42). • Public proclamation keeps the gospel visible (cf. Acts 3:11-26). • House-to-house teaching multiplies mature disciples (cf. 2 Timothy 2:2). Discipleship Pattern Illustrated – Go → the apostles move beyond a single locale. – Proclaim → good news of Jesus announced without dilution. – Teach → doctrine explained until obedience follows. – Multiply → every believer reached becomes a potential messenger (Acts 8:4). Encouragement for Today • Hold both spheres: share Christ openly and nurture faith personally. • Let the gospel remain Christ-centered; the message has not changed. • Expect Christ’s presence; His promise accompanies obedience. • Persevere daily; the early church’s rhythm models sustainable witness. |
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