How does Ephesians 6:19 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? The Setting of Ephesians 6:19 • Paul has just detailed the “armor of God.” • He ends by asking believers to “Pray also for me, that, whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will boldly make known the mystery of the gospel” (Ephesians 6:19). • The focus: bold proclamation, rooted in prayer, empowered by God. Shared Core with the Great Commission • Matthew 28:19-20: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” • Both passages spotlight: – A gospel message that must be spoken. – A global scope (Paul’s “mystery… to the Gentiles,” Ephesians 3:6; Jesus’ “all nations”). – Dependence on divine enabling (“I am with you always,” Matthew 28:20; “words may be given me,” Ephesians 6:19). Bold Speech as Central to ‘Go’ • The Great Commission issues the command to “go.” Ephesians 6:19 shows what “going” sounds like: fearless, Spirit-supplied words. • Acts 1:8 ties the two together: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be My witnesses… to the ends of the earth.” • Paul models the witness Jesus mandates—speaking despite chains (Ephesians 6:20). Prayer Fuels the Mission • Ephesians 6:18 connects: “Pray in the Spirit at all times…” then v. 19 asks prayer for proclamation. • The Commission ends with Christ’s presence; Ephesians shows how believers access that presence—through prayer that unleashes bold speech. • Colossians 4:3-4 echoes: “Pray… that God may open a door… that I may proclaim it clearly.” From Personal Request to Church-Wide Responsibility • Paul’s request is singular (“for me”), yet instructive for every believer: – Each disciple must depend on prayer. – Each disciple must speak the gospel clearly. • 2 Corinthians 5:20: “We are ambassadors for Christ”—the same ambassador language as Ephesians 6:20—linking personal testimony with the Commission’s command. Practical Implications Today • Pray intentionally for open doors and clear, fearless speech. • Expect Christ’s presence to accompany obedience. • View every setting—home, workplace, community—as part of “all nations.” • Speak the gospel plainly, trusting God to supply the words. |
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