How does Genesis 22:18 connect to the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? Scripture Foundation • Genesis 22:18 – “And through your offspring all nations of the earth will be blessed, because you have obeyed My voice.” • 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, 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.” Threads That Tie the Texts Together • All nations in view – Genesis promises blessing “to all nations”; Jesus commands disciple-making “of all nations.” • One chosen Offspring – the singular “offspring” (lit. “seed”) points to Christ (Galatians 3:16). • Blessing equals salvation – the gospel is the ultimate blessing (Galatians 3:8; Romans 1:16). • Obedience fuels mission – Abraham’s obedience triggers global blessing; the church’s obedience spreads that blessing. • Divine initiative – God authorizes both promise and commission; He also guarantees success (Isaiah 46:10; Revelation 7:9-10). Christ: The Fulfillment of the Promise • Jesus is the Offspring through whom blessing flows (Galatians 3:16). • In His death and resurrection He secures redemption for every ethnic group (Revelation 5:9). • By commanding worldwide disciple-making, Christ activates the global reach foreseen in Genesis 22:18. Blessing Explained: The Gospel to the Nations • Forgiveness and new life (Acts 13:38-39). • Adoption into God’s family (Ephesians 1:5). • The indwelling Spirit (Galatians 3:14). • Hope of eternal inheritance (1 Peter 1:3-4). Abraham’s Obedience and Our Mission • Abraham trusted and obeyed without full sight; the church obeys with the finished work of Christ in view (Hebrews 11:8-12; 12:1-2). • His solitary act leads to blessing for “all nations”; our collective obedience brings that blessing to them. • Both acts rest on God’s covenant faithfulness (Psalm 105:8-11; 2 Corinthians 1:20). From Promise to Practice • View every people group as included in God’s ancient plan. • Share the gospel confidently—God pledged its worldwide impact long before Christ spoke the Commission. • Invest in missions, multicultural ministry, and disciple-making; they are direct extensions of Genesis 22:18. • Rely on Christ’s presence (“I am with you always”) just as Abraham relied on God’s voice. Summing Up Genesis 22:18 plants the seed of a universal blessing; Matthew 28:19-20 sends the church to harvest it. One unbroken storyline, one faithful God, one worldwide mission. |
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