How does John 3:34 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20? The Messenger Who Speaks God’s Words John 3:34—“For the One whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit.” • Jesus is “the One” sent directly by the Father. • He speaks God’s very words; there is no gap between what the Father intends and what the Son proclaims (cf. Hebrews 1:1-2). • The Spirit is given to Him “without limit,” underscoring total, unrestricted divine empowerment. All Authority Entrusted to the Son Matthew 28:18—“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” • The limitless Spirit in John 3:34 explains why Jesus can claim limitless authority in Matthew 28:18. • Authority (exousia) is not self-claimed but divinely bestowed, rooted in the Father’s commissioning of the Son (cf. John 5:19-23). • Thus the Great Commission rests on the same foundation John declared—Jesus possesses heaven’s full endorsement and power. From Sent One to Sending Lord Matthew 28:19-20—“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you…” • The verb “Go” flows from Christ’s prior status as the Sent One (John 3:34). • Jesus now mirrors the Father’s pattern: – The Father sent the Son with the Spirit (John 3:34). – The Son sends disciples in the same Spirit (John 20:21-22; Acts 1:8). • Obedience to Christ’s commands echoes His own perfect obedience to the Father’s words. Spirit-Empowered Mission • John 3:34 links the Spirit’s unlimited presence with Jesus’ ministry; Matthew 28:20 promises that same presence—“I am with you always.” • The indwelling Spirit equips believers to speak God’s words just as Jesus did (Acts 2:4; 1 Corinthians 12:4-11). • Evangelism and teaching are carried out “not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit” (Zechariah 4:6). Key Connections at a Glance – Source: Father → Son (John 3:34) → Disciples (Matthew 28:19-20). – Authority: Given without limit (John 3:34) → Exercised universally (Matthew 28:18). – Message: God’s words through Jesus (John 3:34) → Jesus’ commands taught to all (Matthew 28:20). – Presence: Spirit without measure in Jesus (John 3:34) → Jesus’ abiding presence with disciples (Matthew 28:20). – Purpose: Reveal God (John 1:18) → Make disciples who obey God (Matthew 28:20). Living the Link Today • Trust the complete sufficiency of Christ’s authority; no cultural moment can revoke “all authority.” • Speak Scripture confidently, knowing we echo the very words God committed to His Son. • Depend on the Spirit’s limitless power in every aspect of disciple-making—proclamation, baptism, teaching, and faithful obedience. |
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