How does Mark 1:14 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? Mark 1:14—The Gospel Launches “After the arrest of John, Jesus went into Galilee and proclaimed the gospel of God.” Matthew 28:19-20—The Gospel Marches On “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.” How the Two Passages Fit Together • Mark 1:14 shows the moment Jesus personally begins heralding the good news; Matthew 28:19-20 shows Him handing that very mission to His followers. • The same gospel announced in Galilee becomes the worldwide assignment for the Church. • Jesus’ first public act (proclaiming) becomes the disciples’ enduring task (disciple-making). Shared Threads • Gospel Proclamation – Mark 1:14 ⇒ Jesus “proclaimed the gospel.” – Matthew 28:19 ⇒ Disciples “go” and verbally call others to faith. • Kingdom Focus – Mark 1:15 adds, “The kingdom of God is near.” – Matthew 28:18 secures the link: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” • Repentance and Obedience – Mark 1:15: “Repent and believe.” – Matthew 28:20: “Teach them to obey.” • Divine Presence – Mark 1:14-15 features God present in the Person of Christ. – Matthew 28:20 promises, “I am with you always.” From Seed to Harvest 1. Initiation—Jesus plants the gospel seed in Galilee (Mark 1:14-15). 2. Demonstration—He models kingdom life and teaching (Mark 1:21-45). 3. Delegation—He commissions the Twelve during His ministry (Mark 3:14-15; 6:7-13). 4. Culmination—After the Resurrection He broadens the charge to “all nations” (Matthew 28:19-20). 5. Continuation—Acts 1:8 shows the disciples carrying it to Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and “to the ends of the earth.” Supporting Passages • Luke 4:43—“I must preach the gospel of the kingdom… for this is why I was sent.” • Romans 10:14-17—Faith comes by hearing the word of Christ. • 2 Corinthians 5:20—“We are ambassadors for Christ.” Living the Connection • Recognize: The gospel that began in Galilee is still the only message that saves. • Respond: Embrace Jesus’ authority and presence as you share the good news. • Reproduce: Make disciples who will also proclaim, baptize, and teach—carrying the Galilean proclamation to every corner of the earth. |
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