How does Isaiah 66:21 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? Setting the Scene • Isaiah’s final chapter looks forward to the worldwide ingathering of worshipers after God’s final judgment and renewal (Isaiah 66:18–23). • Jesus’ parting words commission His followers to disciple “all nations” until the end of the age (Matthew 28:19-20). • Both passages reveal the same heartbeat of God: global mission that produces global worship. Isaiah 66:21—A Surprising Promise “‘And I will also take some of them as priests and Levites,’ says the LORD.” • Context: the “them” refers to people from “all nations and tongues” (v. 18–20). • Radical note: under the Mosaic Law, only descendants of Levi could serve as priests. • God foretells a day when He will personally appoint priests from the Gentiles—signaling a new, expanded priesthood. Matthew 28:19-20—The Great Commission “‘Go therefore 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 keep all that I have commanded you; and surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.’” • Command: “make disciples of all nations.” • Means: baptizing and teaching in the triune name. • Assurance: Christ’s continual presence empowers the mission. Threads That Tie the Two Texts Together 1. Same Scope • Isaiah anticipates worshipers gathered “from all nations.” • Jesus sends His church to those same nations. 2. Same Goal • Isaiah’s promise culminates in Gentiles serving as priests—people who minister to God. • The Great Commission aims to form obedient disciples—people who worship, serve, and represent God. 3. Same Method: Divine Appointment • “I will take” (Isaiah 66:21) highlights God’s direct action in raising priests. • “I am with you” (Matthew 28:20) shows Jesus personally empowering the disciple-making process. 4. New-Covenant Priesthood • Isaiah prefigures the universal priesthood fulfilled in Christ (1 Peter 2:9; Revelation 1:6; 5:9-10). • Through the gospel, every believer becomes a living sacrifice and minister (Romans 12:1; 15:15-16). 5. Continuity of Mission • God’s Old-Testament promise and Jesus’ New-Testament mandate form one storyline: mission leads to worship, worship multiplies mission (Psalm 67). Practical Takeaways for Today • Expect diversity: the church should reflect “all nations and tongues.” • Embrace priestly identity: every disciple is called to minister reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18-20). • Prioritize discipleship: evangelism that ends at conversion falls short of God’s priest-making agenda. • Rely on His presence: Christ’s promised companionship guarantees the success foretold in Isaiah. |
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