How does Matthew 26:13 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? Key Texts “Truly I tell you, wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what she has done will also be told in memory of her.” (Matthew 26:13) “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 obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20) Immediate Links Between the Two Passages • Both passages speak of the gospel going “into the whole world.” • In 26:13, Jesus predicts the universal spread of the message; in 28:19-20 He commissions His followers to carry it out. • The woman’s act of devotion in 26:13 illustrates the kind of wholehearted obedience Jesus calls for in 28:20. Foreshadowing the Great Commission • Prophetic expectation: Before the cross, Jesus already foresees a global proclamation (26:13). • Apostolic mandate: After the resurrection, He issues the command that fulfills that prophecy (28:19-20). • Consistency of scope: “Whole world” (26:13) parallels “all nations” (28:19), underlining God’s plan for every people group. The Woman at Bethany: A Living Parable of Discipleship • Extravagant love: She poured costly perfume on Jesus (Matthew 26:6-12); true discipleship always values Christ above all else. • Public testimony: Her private act becomes public proclamation—“will also be told” (26:13). • Obedience modeled: What she did parallels Jesus’ later command, “teaching them to obey” (28:20). Authority and Certainty • Jesus’ “Truly I tell you” (26:13) carries divine authority, the same authority He invokes with “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me” (Matthew 28:18). • Because His word is unfailing, the success of the Great Commission is guaranteed. Reinforcing Scriptures • Mark 14:9 — parallel promise that the woman’s act will be proclaimed “throughout the world.” • Acts 1:8 — “You will be My witnesses… to the ends of the earth.” • Psalm 72:17 — Messianic vision: “May all nations be blessed through Him and call Him blessed.” Implications for Today • Proclamation is certain: Jesus’ prophetic word in 26:13 assures us that the gospel will reach every corner; our task is to participate. • Content of the message: The story of self-giving love remains integral to gospel preaching; it illustrates repentance, faith, and devotion. • Discipleship focus: Just as the woman acted on her love, we are to “teach them to obey,” not merely inform. • Confidence in His presence: The promise of Christ’s perpetual presence (28:20) flows from the same lips that guaranteed the worldwide remembrance of Bethany, anchoring our mission in His faithfulness. |
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