How does Colossians 1:28 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? Colossians 1:28 and Matthew 28:19-20 “We proclaim Him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ.” (Colossians 1:28) “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.” (Matthew 28:19-20) One Mission, Two Angles • Matthew records Christ’s command; Paul describes Christ’s command in action. • “Make disciples” (Matthew) and “present everyone perfect in Christ” (Colossians) share the same final aim: mature, obedient followers of Jesus. • Both passages stress proclamation and teaching as the heart of disciple-making. Proclaiming Christ Everywhere • Matthew: “Go…of all nations.” • Colossians: “We proclaim Him…everyone.” • Acts 1:8 reinforces the global scope: witnesses “to the ends of the earth.” • Romans 10:14-17 ties proclamation to saving faith: people must hear about Christ. Teaching that Produces Obedience • Matthew: “Teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you.” • Colossians: “Teaching everyone with all wisdom.” • 2 Timothy 2:2 echoes the same model: pass truth to reliable people who will teach others. • Titus 2:1-10 shows teaching shaping daily life. Admonishing and Accountability • Colossians adds “admonishing” (nouthesia) — loving correction. • Matthew implies the same through “teaching to obey” (not just to know). • Galatians 6:1-2 and Hebrews 10:24-25 underscore mutual exhortation for holiness. Goal: Maturity in Christ • Colossians: “present everyone perfect [mature, complete] in Christ.” • Matthew: “make disciples” (maturing learners, not casual listeners). • Ephesians 4:11-13 shows leaders equipping saints “until we all reach unity in the faith…to mature adulthood.” Empowered by Christ’s Presence and Strength • Matthew: “I am with you always.” • Colossians 1:29 (context): Paul “strives according to His power which is mightily at work in me.” • John 15:5 reminds us we can bear fruit only by abiding in Him. Practical Takeaways for Today • Keep Christ central in every conversation—“We proclaim Him.” • Aim for transformation, not mere information: teach so people obey. • Include admonition; love corrects as well as instructs. • Reach all people groups and every person in your circle. • Depend on Christ’s presence and power, not personal charisma or programs. |
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