How does Romans 10:17 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20?

Romans 10:17—Faith’s Gateway

“Consequently, faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.”

• Faith is born when people actually hear the spoken or read message of Jesus.

• The verse assumes an audible proclamation—someone must articulate the gospel so that another person can believe.

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The Great Commission—Faith’s Mandate

“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.” (Matthew 28:19-20)

• “Go” answers the need implied in Romans 10:17: people cannot hear unless someone goes.

• “Make disciples” clarifies the objective of gospel proclamation—moving listeners from initial faith to lifelong obedience.

• “Teaching them to obey” extends the process begun by hearing; the word that sparks faith also shapes ongoing discipleship.

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Hearing Requires Heralds

Romans 10:14-15 makes the link explicit: “And how can they hear without someone to preach? And how can they preach unless they are sent?”

• The Commission is Jesus sending His followers; Romans describes why that sending is essential.

• Acts 1:8 parallels both texts: “You will receive power… and you will be My witnesses.” Witnesses speak so that faith can arise.

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The Chain: Word → Hearing → Faith → Obedience

1. Word of Christ (Romans 10:17)

2. Proclaimed by disciples (Matthew 28:19; Romans 10:14-15)

3. Heard by the nations (Mark 16:15)

4. Faith ignited (Ephesians 2:8-9)

5. Baptism and teaching lead to obedience (Matthew 28:19-20; John 14:15)

Break any link and the mission stalls; keep every link intact and the Great Commission advances.

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Practical Implications

• Speak the gospel aloud; written tracts and media help, but personal proclamation fulfills Romans 10:17.

• Aim beyond decisions to discipleship—teach believers everything Jesus commanded.

• Rely on the promised presence of Christ; His authority (Matthew 28:18) empowers every witness.

• Celebrate every baptism as evidence that someone heard, believed, and obeyed.

Romans 10:17 provides the spiritual logic; Matthew 28:19-20 supplies the marching orders. Together they define both how faith begins and how the church must respond.