What Command Did Jesus Give To The Apostles

What Command Did Jesus Give to the Apostles? A Comprehensive Examination

The Great Commission, often cited as the final command Jesus gave his apostles, is arguably the most impactful directive in the history of Christianity. However, to understand its full significance, we must delve deeper than a single verse. Jesus issued numerous commands throughout his ministry, each contributing to the foundation of the Christian faith and the shaping of the apostles' roles. This article will explore various commands given by Jesus to his apostles, highlighting their individual significance and culminating in an analysis of the Great Commission's context and lasting influence.

Beyond the Great Commission: Early Commands and Discipleship

Before examining the final commands, it's crucial to understand the foundational commands Jesus gave during his ministry. These early instructions shaped the apostles' understanding of discipleship and laid the groundwork for their future roles.

1. Follow Me: The Call to Discipleship

The initial command, repeated throughout the Gospels, was simply, "Follow me." (Matthew 4:19, Mark 1:17, etc.). This wasn't just a physical act; it represented a complete surrender of one's life to Jesus' teachings and way of life. This simple command launched the discipleship journey, setting the stage for all subsequent instructions. It implied obedience, commitment, and a willingness to learn from Jesus’ example. The apostles' willingness to follow Jesus despite hardship demonstrates the power of this foundational command.

2. Repentance and Faith: The Core Message

Jesus frequently commanded his followers to repent and believe in the good news (Mark 1:15). This wasn't a one-time act but a continuous process of turning away from sin and embracing a life centered on faith in Jesus. This command lies at the heart of Christian theology, forming the basis for salvation and transformation. The apostles' preaching consistently emphasized repentance and faith, mirroring the central message of their Master.

3. Love One Another: The Defining Characteristic

The command to love one another (John 13:34) is a recurring theme in Jesus' teachings. This wasn't simply sentimental affection but a sacrificial, self-giving love that reflected God's love for humanity. This command emphasized the importance of unity, forgiveness, and mutual support within the community of believers, setting the standard for Christian relationships. The apostles' struggles and eventual successes in fostering this love amongst diverse communities illustrate the ongoing challenge and the profound impact of this command.

4. Pray and Persevere: The Weapons of Faith

Jesus commanded his disciples to pray constantly and to persevere in prayer (Luke 18:1). He demonstrated the power of prayer through his own life and encouraged his followers to rely on God’s grace through consistent communication. This command emphasized spiritual discipline, resilience in the face of adversity, and the importance of seeking God's guidance. The apostles’ endurance through persecution highlights their reliance on prayer as a vital component of their ministry.

The Missionary Commands: Preparing for the Future

As Jesus' ministry progressed, his commands took on a more outward focus, preparing the apostles for their future role as missionaries.

5. Preach the Gospel: Spreading the Good News

The command to preach the gospel (Matthew 28:19, Mark 16:15) is central to the Christian mission. Jesus called his disciples to share the good news of salvation with all nations, instructing them to make disciples of all nations. This wasn't simply a task; it was a fundamental aspect of their identity as followers of Christ. The apostles' courageous evangelism, even in the face of danger, demonstrates the transformative power of this command.

6. Heal the Sick: Demonstrating God's Power

Jesus commanded his apostles to heal the sick (Matthew 10:8), demonstrating God's compassion and power. This act of service was integral to their ministry, providing both physical and spiritual healing. It was a tangible manifestation of God's love and a testament to the power of faith. The apostles' healing ministries, recorded in the book of Acts, highlight the significance of this command.

7. Cast Out Demons: Confronting Spiritual Evil

Jesus empowered his apostles to cast out demons (Matthew 10:8), illustrating the authority they held in his name. This symbolized the spiritual battle against evil and showcased the power of faith to overcome demonic influence. This command underscored the reality of spiritual warfare and the necessity of spiritual authority in spreading the Gospel.

The Great Commission: The Culmination of Jesus’ Commands

The Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) represents the culmination of Jesus' commands to the apostles. It's not simply a single instruction, but a comprehensive mandate encompassing everything he had taught and demonstrated throughout his ministry.

"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 observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."

This passage is rich in meaning:

• "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations": This underlines the global scope of the Christian mission. It's not limited to a specific region or group but extends to the entire world. This command calls for missionary zeal and a commitment to spreading the Gospel across cultural and geographical boundaries.

• "Baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit": Baptism is not merely a symbolic act but a public declaration of faith and initiation into the Christian community. It’s an outward sign of an inward transformation.

• "Teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you": This highlights the importance of discipleship. The apostles were not just to spread the message; they were to teach others to live according to Jesus' teachings. This emphasizes the importance of consistent instruction and the development of mature believers.

• "And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age": This promise of Jesus' constant presence is a profound source of encouragement. It assures the apostles and subsequent generations of believers that they are not alone in their mission. God's presence and empowerment are crucial to fulfilling the Great Commission.

The Enduring Legacy of Jesus’ Commands

Jesus’ commands were not merely instructions for a specific time period; they remain relevant and crucial for Christian believers today. The Great Commission continues to inspire missions and evangelism worldwide. The commands to love, pray, and persevere are essential for spiritual growth and resilience. The emphasis on discipleship underscores the importance of teaching and mentoring within the church.

Understanding the breadth and depth of Jesus’ instructions to his apostles provides a richer understanding of the Christian faith and its mission. It calls each believer to personal transformation, compassionate service, and courageous witness to the Gospel. These commands shape not just individual lives but the entire trajectory of the Christian church throughout history and into the future. They are a call to action, a roadmap for life, and a testament to the enduring love and grace of Jesus Christ.