Go! And Make Disciples Like Jesus Series

Go! And Make Disciples Like Jesus

Introduction: A Call to More Than Belief

Discipleship is the heart of the Christian life. It is not just about believing the right things—it is about becoming like the right One: Jesus Christ.

Today, we hear again the call of Christ—not only to come to Him, but to go in His name and make disciples. We will listen to the command of the risen Lord, explore what it means to follow Him, and answer the call to go and make disciples like Jesus.

Matthew 28:16–20 (NLT): Then the eleven disciples left for Galilee, going to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him—but some of them doubted! Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Point 1: The Authority Behind the Mission

“I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth.” (v.18)

Jesus speaks with divine authority—not just as a teacher, but as the risen Son of God. The Greek word for authority, ????s?a (exousia), speaks of rightful power to rule, to command, and to send.

This is no passive suggestion. It is a royal commission from the King of kings.

Colossians 1:16–17 (NLT): “Everything was created through him and for him… he holds all creation together.”

John Piper says: "Missions is not the ultimate goal of the church. Worship is. Missions exist because worship doesn't."

We are sent with Christ’s authority to call people into worship, into relationship, into discipleship.

Point 2: The Call to Make Disciples, Not Fans

“Go and make disciples…” (v.19)

Greek Word – µa??t?? (mathetes)

A disciple is a committed follower, a pupil learning by imitation. It is not just intellectual agreement but total life transformation.

Jesus Himself defines discipleship in sobering terms:

Parallel Passages: The Cost of Discipleship

Luke 9:23–24 (NLT): “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross daily, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it.”

Mark 8:34–35 (NLT): “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me.”

Matthew 16:24–25 (NLT): “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me.”

Jesus repeats this truth across the Gospels: discipleship demands surrender.

R.T. Kendall says: "You cannot have the crown without the cross. True discipleship is costly, and it costs everything."

Friends, the cross is not jewellery—it’s an instrument of death. It means dying to self, pride, comfort, and convenience… to live for Christ.

Illustration: The Bridge Burner

Imagine a soldier who burns the bridge behind him as he crosses into battle. There’s no turning back. That’s what it means to take up your cross—there’s no Plan B. It’s Jesus or nothing.

Point 3: The Goal is Christlikeness

Romans 8:29 (NLT): “He chose them to become like his Son…”

God’s will is not merely that we are saved—but that we are transformed.

Matthew 11:29 (NLT): “Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

Greek Word – ????? (zygos) The “yoke” was used to guide oxen in partnership—symbolising submission, direction, and relationship.

Jesus is not a harsh taskmaster. He says, “Let me teach you. Walk with me.”

Charles Stanley said: "Obedience to God is born out of a relationship with Him—not duty, but love."

The disciple doesn’t obey out of fear, but from devotion to the Master.

The Clay in the Potter’s Hand

We are like clay. Christ shapes us, forms us, presses out the lumps and flaws. It’s uncomfortable, but it’s purposeful. God is crafting us into the image of Christ—a disciple-maker who reflects the Master.

Point 4: Christ Is With Us in the Mission

“Be sure of this: I am with you always...” (v.20)

We are not sent out alone. Jesus doesn’t send us and wave goodbye—He walks with us.

John 14:16–17 (NLT): “I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate… He lives with you now and later will be in you.”

Max Lucado writes: "God never said the journey would be easy, but He did say the arrival would be worthwhile."

Discipleship is not easy, but Christ’s presence makes it possible, and His promise makes it worth it.