How does Romans 11:13 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? Reading the Anchor Verse Romans 11:13: “Now I am speaking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch as I am the apostle to the Gentiles, I magnify my ministry.” Hearing Jesus’ Global Mandate Matthew 28:19-20: “Go therefore 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.” Paul as a Living Illustration of the Commission • “Apostle to the Gentiles” (Romans 11:13) directly fulfills “all nations” (Matthew 28:19). • Acts 9:15—Jesus declares Paul “an instrument… to carry My name before the Gentiles.” • Acts 13:47 cites Isaiah 49:6: “I have made you a light for the Gentiles,” showing prophetic harmony with the Great Commission. • Paul “magnifies” (makes great) his ministry by actively discipling Gentiles—mirroring Christ’s command to baptize and teach. Shared Themes: Universality, Authority, Discipleship 1. Universality – “Gentiles” (Romans) = “all nations” (Matthew). – Ephesians 3:8: Paul preaches “the boundless riches of Christ to the Gentiles.” 2. Authority – Jesus’ “all authority” (Matthew 28:18) authorizes Paul’s apostleship (Galatians 1:1). 3. Discipleship and Teaching – Paul plants churches, appoints elders, writes epistles—practical outworking of “teaching them to obey” (Matthew 28:20). – 2 Timothy 4:5: “do the work of an evangelist,” echoing ongoing obedience to the Commission. Practical Takeaways for the Church Today • Embrace every ethnicity: if Paul’s focus was Gentiles, our focus is global. • Elevate the task: Paul “magnified” his ministry; value Gospel work above all. • Combine evangelism with teaching: conversion (baptism) and obedience (discipleship) belong together. • Depend on Christ’s presence: Matthew 28:20 promises Jesus “always”; Paul experienced that presence (2 Timothy 4:17). Encouragement for Personal Witness • Your sphere mirrors Paul’s: family, workplace, neighborhood—your “Gentiles.” • Magnify the simple acts: share the Gospel, mentor new believers, support missions. • Trust the same promise: Christ’s authority sends you; His presence sustains you. |
    |