Matthew 28:19-20
What is written? (ESV)
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.
What does it say?
Go out and make followers of all the people, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit and teach them to abide by all that I [Jesus] have commanded. Behold, I will remain with you to the end of this age.
What is its immediate context?
The very close of Matthew’s account of Jesus’ life on earth. This address was made to the eleven apostles (vs 16) and similar accounts are given at the end of the accounts from Mark (16:15-16) and Luke (24:45-47).
How Matthew 28:19-20 is applied across Bible answers
Does man have free will?
The "Great Commission" from Jesus is premised on the idea that "all nations" (e.g. everyone) have free will to "observe" (or not to observe).
How are works defined in the Bible?
Jesus defined discipleship in two parts: (1) being baptized, and (2) observing or doing all that had been commanded.
Is baptism for infants or children?
Jesus' instructions to the apostles are to go out and baptize and teach individuals. The need for baptism (forgiveness of sins) was for individuals old enough to be taught obedience to God's law.
Is baptism required for salvation?
Jesus states clearly that a disciple is one that is baptized.
Is there a specific age of accountability?
Jesus' instructions to the apostles are to go out and baptize and teach individuals. The need for baptism (forgiveness of sins) was for individuals who were old enough to be taught obedience to God's law.
What is salvation according to the Bible?
Jesus summarized discipleship or the "making of disciples" as two things: (1) being baptized in the name of (authority) the unified Godhead, and (2) teaching them to obey the commandments.
What saves you eternally?
Jesus stipulates observance of "all that I have commanded" (including being baptized), as a condition of discipleship (e.g. being saved).
Where do we see the personality of the Godhead?
A disciple is baptized into the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
