Topic(s): Evangelism

Todd Clippard

The Great Commission was given to the apostles by the Lord Jesus following His resurrection and immediately preceding His ascension into heaven (Luke 24:45-53). Though given to the 11 apostles, it is apparent that the commission was to be carried out by the entire church (Acts 2:41-47; 8:4). The result was the gospel being preached to every creature under heaven within one generation of the establishment of the church (Romans 10:18; Colossians 1:6, 23).

Though given to the apostles and carried out by them with the early church, we understand the commission continues in force today as there will always be people who need to hear the gospel of Jesus Christ. Tragically, millions die every day never having heard the name and story of Jesus. To die in such condition is to be lost eternally (2 Thessalonians 1:6-9). Therefore, it behooves us to devote ourselves to the preaching of the gospel to every creature under heaven.