How does John 1:7 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? Key Texts Side by Side John 1:7 – “He came as a witness to testify about the Light, so that through him everyone might believe.” 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, even to the end of the age.” One Strategy, Two Moments • John the Baptist’s ministry launches Jesus’ public work; the Great Commission extends that work to the ends of the earth. • Both passages unveil a single, seamless plan: God sends witnesses so people everywhere can see the Light, believe, and learn obedience. Universal Reach • “Everyone might believe” (John 1:7) parallels “all nations” (Matthew 28:19). • God’s heart has always been global—no limits of ethnicity, geography, or culture (cf. Revelation 7:9). Focus on the Light • John points to “the Light” (John 8:12). • The Commission centers on the Son’s authority (Matthew 28:18) and commands baptizing into the triune Name—public identification with that same Light. Witness Becomes Disciple-Making • John’s task: bear witness. • Our task: bear witness plus nurture— ‑ Proclaim the gospel. ‑ Baptize converts. ‑ Teach continual obedience (cf. Acts 2:38-42). • The essence is unchanged; the scope has widened. Divine Empowerment • John was “filled with the Holy Spirit even from his mother’s womb” (Luke 1:15). • Disciples receive the Spirit’s power for witness (Acts 1:8). • Jesus’ promise, “I am with you always,” guarantees the same enabling presence. Practical Takeaways • See yourself in the line of witnesses begun with John—your words and life are meant to spotlight Christ. • Keep both halves of the Commission together: evangelism (that people might believe) and discipleship (that believers grow). • Trust the unbroken promise of Christ’s presence; the Light you proclaim also lights your path (2 Corinthians 4:6). |
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