Easter Devotional: Embracing the Great Commission Mark 16:14-18 says: “Later Jesus appeared to the Eleven as they were eating; he rebuked them for their lack of faith and their stubborn refusal to believe those who had seen him after he had risen. He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.” As we journey through Holy Week, we are reminded of the profound …show more content…
The Great Commission, found in Mark 16:14-18, is not just a standalone command but is deeply interconnected with the rest of the Bible. It echoes the Creation Mandate given to humanity in Genesis 1:28 to fill the earth and subdue it, which finds its ultimate fulfillment in the spreading of the Gospel to all nations. Furthermore, it resonates with the teachings of Jesus throughout His ministry, emphasizing the urgency of repentance, faith, and proclamation of the Kingdom of God before he comes a second time. During Holy Week, we reflect on the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross and His triumphant resurrection against death. The Great Commission serves as the culmination of these events, as it pushes believers to carry the message of redemption to the ends of the earth. Through Christ's death and resurrection, we are given the newfound power and subsequently commissioned to participate in God's redemptive plan for humanity. As students of MCA, we need to consider the diverse needs and struggles we may face now, and later in life, from professing our