How does Mark 16:15 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20?

Setting the scene

“Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15)

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them … teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:19-20)

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Parallel mandates

• Both passages record the risen Christ’s final instructions.

• Each begins with a clear imperative: “Go.”

• Both expand the mission beyond Israel to “all the world” / “all nations.”

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Scope of the mission

• Mark highlights breadth: “every creature.”

• Matthew specifies people groups: “all nations.”

• Together they erase geographic, ethnic, and social boundaries (cf. Acts 1:8).

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Core message

• Mark centers on proclamation: “preach the gospel.”

• Matthew focuses on reproduction: “make disciples.”

• Gospel preaching births faith (Romans 10:14-17); disciple-making matures it (Colossians 1:28).

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Authority and empowerment

• Matthew prefaces the command with Jesus’ universal authority (28:18).

• Mark’s longer ending (16:17-20) shows signs accompanying those who believe, underscoring divine confirmation.

• Both are sustained by His presence: “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20) and “the Lord worked with them” (Mark 16:20).

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Methods of obedience

1. Proclaim—announce Christ’s death and resurrection plainly (1 Corinthians 15:1-4).

2. Baptize—publicly identify new believers with the triune God (Acts 2:38-41).

3. Teach—ground disciples in everything Jesus commanded (John 14:21).

4. Depend—act in the Spirit’s power, not mere human effort (Acts 1:8).

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Practical takeaways for today

• Evangelism and discipleship are inseparable; proclaiming without nurturing leaves spiritual infants.

• The gospel is for “every creature”—no person is outside Christ’s invitation (2 Peter 3:9).

• Confidence rests in Christ’s authority and presence; obedience is our task, results are His.