How does Romans 16:26 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? God’s Eternal Plan Revealed “but now revealed and made known through the prophetic Scriptures by the command of the eternal God, in order to lead all nations to the obedience of faith—” (Romans 16:26) The Great Commission Stated “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…” (Matthew 28:19-20) Parallel Mandates: One Command, One Goal • Both passages rest on God’s authority—Romans speaks of “the command of the eternal God,” while Matthew records Jesus’ “all authority.” • “All nations” appears in both texts, leaving no people group outside the scope of the gospel. • Obedience is central—Romans aims for “the obedience of faith,” Matthew calls us to “teach them to obey.” • Revelation leads to mission—what God has now unveiled (Romans 16:26) becomes what believers must proclaim (Matthew 28:19-20). Key Components Shared 1. Source of Authority – Romans: “command of the eternal God” – Matthew: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me” (v.18) 2. Scope of Mission – Romans: “all nations” – Matthew: “all nations” 3. Desired Outcome – Romans: “obedience of faith” – Matthew: “disciples… teaching them to obey” 4. Ongoing Presence – Romans implies divine empowerment in the gospel (v.25). – Matthew: “I am with you always” (v.20). Supporting Passages that Echo the Connection • Genesis 12:3—promise that “all the families of the earth” will be blessed. • Isaiah 49:6—Messiah as “a light for the nations.” • Luke 24:47—“repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached… to all nations.” • Acts 1:8—“you will be My witnesses… to the ends of the earth.” Practical Takeaways for Today • The gospel is not private; God’s revealed mystery demands public proclamation. • Evangelism and discipleship are inseparable—faith that saves is faith that obeys. • Every believer participates: God’s eternal command channels through Christ’s commission to us. • Confidence rests in divine authority and presence; success in mission is guaranteed by the God who issued both the revelation and the commission. |
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