SHARING THE GOOD NEWS AND MAKING DISCIPLES
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Matthew 28:19-20
Supporting Texts: Mark 16:15, Acts 1:8, 2 Timothy 2:2, John 15:16, Colossians 1:28
INTRODUCTION:
The Great Commission is the final command Jesus gave before ascending to heaven. He did not only command us to preach the gospel but also to make disciples of all nations. Preaching the gospel brings people into the kingdom, but discipleship establishes them in faith and empowers them to grow spiritually. Many believers are content with evangelism alone, but true kingdom expansion requires making disciples who, in turn, will disciple others.
In this message, we will examine the importance of sharing the Good News and making disciples, as well as the role of every believer in fulfilling this divine mandate.
1. SHARING THE GOOD NEWS IS A DIVINE COMMAND
Evangelism is not an option for believers; it is a command from Jesus.
a) Jesus commanded us to preach to all nations (Matthew 28:19)
The gospel is for everyone, regardless of tribe, race, or status.
b) The gospel must be preached to all creation (Mark 16:15)
Every believer has the responsibility to share the Good News.
c) The power to witness comes from the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8)
We need the Holy Spirit to effectively share the gospel.
d) Evangelism must be intentional and urgent (Romans 10:14-15)
People cannot believe unless someone preaches to them.
e) Biblical Example: Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:26-39)
Philip obeyed God’s leading, preached to the eunuch, and led him to Christ.
2. MAKING DISCIPLES IS THE HEART OF CHRISTIAN MINISTRY
True discipleship goes beyond conversion; it involves nurturing believers to maturity.
a) Discipleship involves teaching and training believers (Matthew 28:20)
New converts must be taught the principles of faith.
b) Disciples must be grounded in God’s Word (John 8:31-32)
The Word of God transforms and strengthens disciples.
c) Discipleship is about following Christ, not men (Luke 9:23)
A true disciple denies self, takes up the cross, and follows Jesus.
d) A disciple must be disciplined and committed (2 Timothy 2:3-4)
Spiritual growth requires sacrifice, discipline, and consistency.
e) Biblical Example: Jesus and the Twelve Disciples (Mark 3:14-15)
Jesus trained His disciples before sending them out to preach.
3. DISCIPLESHIP INVOLVES MULTIPLICATION
Discipleship is not complete until a disciple makes more disciples.
a) The goal of discipleship is multiplication (2 Timothy 2:2)
We must train others to train others.
b) A true disciple bears fruit that remains (John 15:16)
Disciples must reproduce themselves in others.
c) The early church grew through disciple-making (Acts 6:7)
The Word of God increased, and the number of disciples multiplied greatly.
d) Every believer is called to disciple others (Titus 2:3-5)
Spiritual growth comes through mentorship and teaching.
e) Biblical Example: Paul and Timothy (Philippians 2:19-22)
Paul discipled Timothy, who later became a strong leader in the church.
4. DISCIPLESHIP INVOLVES TEACHING OBEDIENCE TO GOD
A disciple is not just a follower but an obedient servant of Christ.
a) Disciples must obey Christ’s teachings (John 14:15)
Love for Christ is demonstrated through obedience.
b) True disciples are not just hearers but doers of the Word (James 1:22-25)
Application of God’s Word is key to spiritual growth.
c) Obedience to God leads to divine rewards (Deuteronomy 28:1-2)
Blessings follow those who obey God’s commands.
d) Discipleship requires a life of holiness and dedication (Romans 12:1-2)
True disciples present themselves as living sacrifices to God.
e) Biblical Example: Abraham’s Obedience (Genesis 12:1-4)
Abraham obeyed God, and his faith became an example for generations.
5. DISCIPLESHIP INVOLVES SERVING OTHERS AND SPREADING THE GOSPEL
Discipleship is about serving others and expanding God’s kingdom.
a) Disciples must have a heart for service (Matthew 20:26-28)
True leadership in the kingdom is about serving others.
b) The greatest disciple is the one who serves (John 13:12-17)
Jesus washed the feet of His disciples to teach humility.
c) Disciples must have a passion for lost souls (Luke 19:10)
Jesus came to seek and save the lost, and we must do the same.
d) The reward of discipleship is eternal (2 Corinthians 4:17-18)
Disciples who labour faithfully will receive eternal rewards.
e) Biblical Example: The Church at Antioch (Acts 11:19-26)
The disciples in Antioch were committed to preaching and serving, leading to the spread of the gospel.
CONCLUSION:
Sharing the Good News and making disciples is the heartbeat of the Great Commission. Evangelism brings people into the kingdom, but discipleship establishes them in faith and prepares them for kingdom service. Every believer is called to evangelise and disciple others.
Are you fulfilling this divine mandate? Start today by sharing your faith, teaching others, and mentoring new believers. The kingdom of God grows through your obedience!
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, give me the passion to share the gospel with boldness.
2. Father, make me a true disciple who follows Your teachings.
3. Holy Spirit, empower me to be a soul-winner for Your kingdom.
4. Lord, help me to disciple others and lead them to spiritual maturity.
5. Every spirit of fear and timidity in evangelism, I cast it out in Jesus’ name.
6. Father, let my life be a testimony that draws others to Christ.
7. Lord, raise up more disciples and labourers for Your kingdom.
8. Holy Spirit, give me divine wisdom to teach and mentor new believers.
9. Lord, let my fruits in evangelism remain and multiply.
10. Father, use me to expand Your kingdom and make a lasting impact.
