What does "doing all I have commanded" mean for Christians today? The Command in Context Matthew 28:20 records Jesus’ words: “teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you.” • “All” leaves nothing out—every instruction, promise, warning, and example Jesus gave is binding. • The verb “obey” (Greek: tereo) means to guard, keep watch over, and practice. It is both inward loyalty and outward action. • Jesus delivers this charge after His resurrection, underscoring its permanent relevance until “the end of the age.” Living Obedience Today • Obedience is proof of genuine love for Christ (John 14:15). • It marks authentic discipleship (John 8:31). • It brings fellowship with God’s presence (John 14:23). • It is the path to blessing rather than a means to earn salvation (Ephesians 2:8-10). Areas of Application 1. Doctrine – Hold to the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27). – Reject teaching that dilutes or contradicts Scripture (2 Timothy 4:2-4). 2. Moral Purity – Flee sexual immorality (1 Thessalonians 4:3-7). – Walk in honesty and integrity (Ephesians 4:25-32). 3. Relationships – Forgive as Christ forgave (Colossians 3:13). – Love enemies and pray for persecutors (Matthew 5:44). 4. Worship and Gathering – Assemble faithfully (Hebrews 10:24-25). – Participate in the Lord’s Supper and baptism as commanded (1 Corinthians 11:23-26; Matthew 28:19). 5. Mission – Share the gospel intentionally (2 Corinthians 5:20). – Make disciples, not mere converts (Matthew 28:19-20). Motives Behind Obedience • Gratitude for redemption (1 Peter 1:18-19). • Desire to glorify God (1 Corinthians 10:31). • Expectation of eternal reward (2 Corinthians 5:10). Power to Obey • The indwelling Holy Spirit enables obedience (Romans 8:4-14). • Scripture renews the mind, aligning desires with God’s will (Psalm 119:9-11; Romans 12:2). • The church community provides encouragement and correction (Hebrews 3:13). Encouragement and Accountability • Regular self-examination keeps obedience on course (2 Corinthians 13:5). • Confession restores fellowship when we fall short (1 John 1:9). • Mutual exhortation helps us persevere until Christ returns (Hebrews 10:25). To “do all I have commanded” is to embrace every word Jesus spoke, relying on His Spirit, walking in loving fidelity, and teaching others to do the same until He comes. |
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