Podcasts about Great Commission

In Taking Control of Your Life, Pastor Jerry Dirmann teaches how believers can move from instability to stability by making intentional, God-centered choices. This message reveals why trying to live two lives creates conflict, how pruning brings greater fruitfulness, and how regret and resentment can keep us stuck in the past. You'll be encouraged to seek first God's Kingdom, receive His grace, and walk in the freedom He has prepared for you.MORE...« Jesus Disciple » God is calling believers EVERYWHERE to be a part of fulfilling the Great Commission, making disciples around the world. Get free resources and find out more at BeJesusDisciple.com.« Support the Jesus Disciple Vision » Give at https://jesusdisciple.com/give/« Solid Lives » To find out more about the ministry of Solid Lives, visit https://solidlives.com/« Support » Help us get free resources out to more people. To support the ministry of Solid Lives, please visit https://solidlives.com/give/« Podcasts » Listen to weekly messages or a daily episode from The New Testament Daily podcast here: https://solidlives.com/podcast/Support the show

Do you believe miracles can still happen? In this episode of The Missions Show, Scott is joined by Dr. Darren Carlson—pastor, author, and founder of Training Leaders International—to discuss the ongoing work of God as revealed in the book of Acts and experienced around the world today. Drawing from Carlson's new book, Witness: Missional Devotions from the Book of Acts, the conversation explores whether Acts should be viewed merely as a historical account or as an invitation to expect God's continued unusual activity through the church. Scott and Darren wrestle honestly with the tension between miracles and the “grind” of everyday ministry. Through global mission stories, pastoral experiences, and personal encounters, Carlson emphasizes that God is actively at work—often beyond our narrow expectations. By telling true stories of God's work, the church is strengthened, believers are made glad, and hope is restored even amid suffering, persecution, and apparent setbacks. Key Topics The book of Acts as a model for ongoing Christian mission, not just past history Balancing expectation for miracles with ordinary faithfulness in daily life Discernment amid exaggerated or false miracle claims Forced migration and persecution as catalysts for mission in Acts Storytelling as a means of encouraging believers and strengthening faith Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

In All That I Have Commanded You, we explore whether Yeshua commanded his disciples to teach the Torah to the nations. By examining Matthew 28:19–20 in context with Matthew 5:17–19, we show that the Great Commission includes teaching God's commandments.Key Scriptures: Matthew 28:19–20; Matthew 5:17–19; Deuteronomy 4:5–8; Isaiah 2:2–4Takeaway: Yeshua's Great Commission continues the Torah's mission to bring God's instruction to all nations. Hashtags: #AllThatIHaveCommanded #119Ministries

People are becoming increasingly distrusting of others – even people in their own neighborhoods! Rev. Dr. Lucas Woodford joins Steph and Andy to talk about how the lack of trust in other people hurts our closest human relationships.   Bio: Rev. Dr. Lucas V. Woodford, (MDiv, STM, DMin), is President of the Minnesota South District of the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod and Associate Pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Farmington, MN. He is the author of Great Commission, Great Confusion, or Great Confession? (Wipf & Stock, 2012). He is co-author with Harold Senkbeil of Pastoral Leadership:  for the Care of Souls (2nd ed Lexham Press, 2021) and their book on contextual mission, The Culture of God's Word: Faithful Ministry in a Post-Christian Society is forthcoming from Lexham in Feb. 2026. He has written numerous articles published in The Lutheran Witness, Logia, and Seelsorger, including a monograph "What does this mean? Responding to Social Justice and Critical Race Theory" (2021).  Woodford is a member of the Board of Regents of Concordia University, St. Paul, MN. He has served as an adjunct instructor for Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN and the graduate school at The Institute of Lutheran Theology in Brookings, SD.  Dr. Woodford is a Fellow in the Collegium of DOXOLOGY: The Lutheran Center for Spiritual Care and Counsel, charged with research, writing, and speaking regarding the care of souls in the contemporary context. He frequently presents on matters related to soul care, missiology, marriage, sex and gender issues, as well as critical race theory. He is a husband to Becca and father to their seven children, five girls and two boys: Isabella (married to Zach), Thaddaeus, Aletheia, Ekklacia, Soteria, Titus, Basileia, and grandfather to Aurora.  Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: lcms.org/life LCMS Family Ministry: lcms.org/family  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

The entire Bible is about the mission of God. God wants to restore trust with humans, which will lead to the restoration of all creation.   In the Scriptures, we are given the creational mandate in Genesis and the Great Commission in Matthew. This means that discipleship is important in this life, but so is your work, your family, and your time.  If we can get a bigger picture of evangelism, one that includes the breadth of God's mission, we can begin to announce the gospel with our lives. 

Pastor BoldinMatthew 28Worship through the Ministry of Teaching the Word!Need Prayer or Want to Give your Life to Christ?email: prayer.request@strivinghome.org.We will pray with you or for you!Get Involved: www.strivinghome.org

Date: 1.11.26 Series: "Believe: The Gospel of John" Text: John 20:19-31 Message: "Great Commission Preview" Speaker: Dr. Owen Nease, Lead Pastor

Jesus did not leave the church guessing. He left a blueprint.In this conference message, Pastor Adam Dragoon preaches from Matthew 28 and lays out the discipleship blueprint Jesus gave His followers to reach the world. This sermon confronts mission drift, challenges consumer Christianity, and explains why discipleship and church planting are the only way to fulfill the Great Commission.From practical illustrations to global impact, this message calls believers back to obedience, multiplication, and supernatural dependence on God.If the church follows the blueprint, the gospel works everywhere.TakeawaysThe transformative power of givingThe mission of every believer and church to make disciples of all nations The urgency and magnitude of the mission to reach the lostThe power and authority given by Jesus for worldwide evangelismChapters00:00 The Power of Giving05:53 Personal Testimonies of Giving and Receiving11:56 The Discipleship Blueprint31:07 The Mission to Reach the Lost46:08 Worldwide Power for Evangelism

As the church enters a new season of ministry in 2026, this episode of Leaders in Living Rooms invites leaders to re-examine what they think they know about multisite ministry. Sean Morgan is joined by Warren Bird and Jim Tomberlin to explore how the multisite movement has quietly shifted from simple replication into a multiplying, movement-driven model focused on discipleship, innovation, and the Great Commission. Together, they unpack common critiques of multisite churches, highlight emerging “pacesetter” churches shaping the future, and preview an ambitious national research project designed to equip churches navigating growth, complexity, and mission at scale. Welcome to Episode 150 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

In this powerful episode of Fuel for the Harvest, Nathan is joined by Forge speaker Jason Roe for a deep and refreshing conversation about what it really means to endure to the end, walk in God's will, and become the kind of laborer Jesus prayed for.Jason shares from Matthew 24, Romans 12, and his own journey in itinerant ministry—unpacking why Jesus said “the laborers are few,” how intimacy with God becomes the greatest gift we offer the world, and why surrendering our body, mind, and control is the key to spiritual strength.Together they explore:Why God desires all people to be saved—and His plan to use ordinary believersHow to recognize and walk in the center of God's willWhat it really means to be filled with the Holy SpiritThe danger of doing ministry in our own strengthPractical ways to rest, reset, and endure for the long haulWhy opening the “door” of your life is essential if you want the Spirit to empower youThey also share stories of God's ongoing work through Forge Outreach Camps and the beauty of watching students live out the Great Commission.If you've ever felt weary, dry, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to keep going in ministry or everyday life—this episode will remind you that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit dwell within you, and you've got the power right now.

At the end of the Gospel of Matthew, we have the “Great Commission,” but is that our job, God's job, our privilege, God's chore… what is it? Today, with a brand-new book, Clarifying the Great Commission, by Rev. Daniel Voth, we get a moment to reconsider and get a deeper grip on this precious AND WILDLY FAMOUS part of the plan of Jesus that includes each of us. Listen (and share!) for yourself AND for the people depending on you.

Are you living the life God called you to live, or are you settling for spiritual mediocrity? In this powerful message, Pastor Jerry Dirmann teaches from John 15:5-8 about how to make your life count through abiding in Christ and bearing much fruit. Jesus promises that when you abide in Him and He in you, you WILL bear much fruit—guaranteed. This isn't about working on church staff or having perfect circumstances. It's about immediate obedience and refusing to waste the time God has given you. Discover why Peter and Andrew immediately left their nets to follow Jesus, and what that means for your life today. Learn how Pastor Jerry's mother, working graveyard shifts while raising three sons, made an eternal impact by prioritizing discipleship. Understand why Jesus said "many are called, but few are chosen" and how you can be among the chosen who follow Him wholeheartedly. If you've been feeling stuck, spiritually mediocre, or like your life isn't making the impact God designed, this message is for you. Pastor Jerry shares the truth that will set you free: "If you wait, you waste." The time to follow Jesus is now—immediately, not after you get your circumstances in order. Start your own discipleship group at therocknetwork.com. Let's refuse to live average Christian lives and instead build solid lives that build solid lives. KEY TAKEAWAYS:  ✓ He who abides in Christ and Christ in him bears much fruit (John 15:5) ✓ Fruitfulness isn't about human energy—it's about Holy Spirit power  ✓ Immediate obedience is required when Jesus calls  ✓ You don't need perfect circumstances to make an eternal impact  ✓ Making disciples who make disciples is the path to kingdom impact  ✓ If you wait, you waste—don't delay following Jesus SCRIPTURE REFERENCES:  • John 15:5-8 - Abiding in Christ and bearing fruit  • John 8:31-32 - Continuing in God's Word brings freedom  • Matthew 4:18-22 - Disciples immediately left their nets  • Luke 9:57-62 - The cost of following Jesus  • Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission to make disciples NEXT STEPS:  

What does missions look like in a global city like Paris, France? In this episode of The Missions Show, Alex and Scott are joined by pastor Billy Bean to discuss A City of Light, a short documentary exploring gospel work in Paris, France. Often overlooked as a missions field, Paris is presented as a strategic global city, shaped by history, migration, and secular ideology, whose influence extends far beyond Europe. Billy explains how missionaries and pastors in Paris seek to connect with deeply held French values—such as beauty, freedom, identity, and intellectual rigor—while confronting their limits and fulfilling their deepest longings through the gospel. View the film and learn more at https://christcovenant.com/acityoflight Key Topics Why Paris and Western Europe remain vital mission fields Global cities as strategic hubs for gospel influence The legacy of secularism and expressive individualism in French culture Contextualization: connecting, confronting, and fulfilling culture with the gospel Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

What does it look like to give your entire life to the Great Commission? In this powerful episode of the Evangelism Podcast, we sit down with Bishop Daniel, a global Christian leader whose heart beats for the unreached and the forgotten. As President of GFA World, Bishop Daniel serves as a vital bridge between thousands of frontline missionaries across Africa and Asia and the global Church. Raised in a family devoted to world missions, his life has been marked by compassion, sacrifice, and an unwavering call to bring the Living Water of Jesus to the most desperate places on earth. His story will stir your faith, awaken your compassion, and challenge you to live fully surrendered to God's global harvest.  

What does it mean to truly abide in Christ? Hudson Taylor's life answers this through his deep reliance on Jesus. Once striving in his own strength, Taylor came to realize that fruitfulness flows only from resting in Christ. His life bore lasting impact as he founded the China Inland Mission and helped bring the gospel to thousands. His story reminds us that the Christian life is not about what we do for Christ, but what He does through us as we abide in Him.

In this episode Craig interviews Barry Meguiar, the founder of a successful car care business who transitioned into a ministry focused on sharing faith. Barry shares his journey from a troubled past to a life dedicated to God, emphasizing the importance of joy, purpose, and everyday evangelism. He encourages listeners to see their daily lives as opportunities to share their faith and move others closer to Jesus, regardless of their profession or circumstances. The conversation highlights the significance of trusting God, living with joy, and being intentional in sharing the gospel.TakeawaysBarry Meguiar transitioned from a car care business to ministry.Joy is essential in sharing faith, even during trials.Every Christian is in full-time ministry, regardless of their job.Trusting God leads to a fulfilling life and purpose.Sharing faith can happen in everyday conversations.Intentionality is key in evangelism and reaching the lost.Your personal testimony can have a powerful impact.Hobbies and passions can serve as mission fields.The church must equip believers to share their faith.Living out the Great Commission is a daily responsibility.TitlesFrom Car Wax to Ministry: Barry's JourneyFaith in Business: Trusting God's PlanSound Bites“You have to follow the nudge.”“You can have joy every day.”“Sharing your faith is fun.”Chapters00:00Introduction to Barry Maguire's Journey05:49Living in Full-Time Ministry09:04The Power of Joy in Adversity11:54Sharing Faith in Everyday Life14:59The Importance of Loving Your Neighbor17:55Igniting Your Life Through Faith21:01Overcoming Fear in Evangelism23:45The Call to Ministry and Sharing Faith26:18The Business as a Pulpit28:05Everyday Evangelism: Your Life as a Mission Field31:24The Role of Pastors in Evangelism32:19The State of Faith in America33:12Living with Purpose: Moving Others Closer to Jesus34:55Finding God in Hobbies and Passions38:57The Joy of Sharing Faith41:27Trusting God in Evangelism41:46Ignite America: Resources for Evangelism

Are you living the life God called you to live, or are you settling for spiritual mediocrity? In this powerful message, Pastor Jerry Dirmann teaches from John 15:5-8 about how to make your life count through abiding in Christ and bearing much fruit. Jesus promises that when you abide in Him and He in you, you WILL bear much fruit—guaranteed. This isn't about working on church staff or having perfect circumstances. It's about immediate obedience and refusing to waste the time God has given you. Discover why Peter and Andrew immediately left their nets to follow Jesus, and what that means for your life today. Learn how Pastor Jerry's mother, working graveyard shifts while raising three sons, made an eternal impact by prioritizing discipleship. Understand why Jesus said "many are called, but few are chosen" and how you can be among the chosen who follow Him wholeheartedly. If you've been feeling stuck, spiritually mediocre, or like your life isn't making the impact God designed, this message is for you. Pastor Jerry shares the truth that will set you free: "If you wait, you waste." The time to follow Jesus is now—immediately, not after you get your circumstances in order. Start your own discipleship group at therocknetwork.com. Let's refuse to live average Christian lives and instead build solid lives that build solid lives. KEY TAKEAWAYS:  ✓ He who abides in Christ and Christ in him bears much fruit (John 15:5) ✓ Fruitfulness isn't about human energy—it's about Holy Spirit power  ✓ Immediate obedience is required when Jesus calls  ✓ You don't need perfect circumstances to make an eternal impact  ✓ Making disciples who make disciples is the path to kingdom impact  ✓ If you wait, you waste—don't delay following Jesus SCRIPTURE REFERENCES:  • John 15:5-8 - Abiding in Christ and bearing fruit  • John 8:31-32 - Continuing in God's Word brings freedom  • Matthew 4:18-22 - Disciples immediately left their nets  • Luke 9:57-62 - The cost of following Jesus  • Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission to make disciples NEXT STEPS:  

What if God never intended His blessings to stop with you—but to move through you to the world? As we begin Season 1: Heaven to Earth and launch our year-long study through the book of Matthew, Vision Weekend sets the vision for how we will live as a church in 2026. From Jesus' announcement that “the kingdom of heaven is at hand” to the Great Commission, Matthew reveals that God's plan has always been to bless His people so that all nations might be blessed. This message reminds us that Jesus didn't just rescue us from sin—He rescued us for His mission. Through the stories of outsiders, ordinary people, and faithful obedience, we are invited to give God a year, trust Him fully, and join Him in bringing the gospel to every neighbor and every nation. The question is simple but costly: What is God telling you to do, and how will you respond?

Last words matter. And Jesus’ last words to His disciples are His last words to us: “All authority… Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.” This message is a wake-up call for 2026—Jesus isn’t asking for casual Christians. He’s forming disciples who follow close, live surrendered, and join His unstoppable mission in the world.  As we continue our January series Formed & Sent, Pastor Joel Hastings unpacks Matthew 28:18–20 and shows why the Great Commission changes everything: Jesus has the authority, Jesus gives the mission, and Jesus defines discipleship as learning His way (His “yoke”) and becoming like Him. From first-century discipleship to modern-day obedience, we’re challenged to ask: are we willing not just to die for Jesus—but to live for Him every day?  Here’s a couple key takeaways • Jesus has all authority—so we can trust Him, and we must obey Him.  • Discipleship means staying close enough to Jesus that His life “rubs off” on yours.  • The question isn’t “Would you die for Him?”—it’s “Will you live for Him?”

In this episode JM's favorite author, Christopher Wright, talks about the recently revised edition of his bestselling Biblical Theology "The Mission of God"! Other books by Christopher Wright: * The Mission of God (2nd edition) - https://www.amazon.com/Mission-God-Unlocking-Bibles-Narrative/dp/1514000040/ * The Mission of God's People - https://www.amazon.com/Mission-Gods-People-Biblical-Theology/dp/0310291127/ * Old Testament Ethics for the People of God - https://www.amazon.com/Old-Testament-Ethics-People-God/dp/0830839615 * Here are Your Gods - https://www.amazon.com/Here-Are-Your-Gods-Discipleship/dp/0830853359/ * The Great Story and the Great Commission - https://www.amazon.com/Great-Story-Commission-Participating-Biblical/dp/1540968863/ * Hearing the Message of Daniel - https://www.amazon.com/Hearing-Message-Daniel-Sustaining-Todays/dp/0310284643/ * Hearing the Message of Habakkuk - https://www.amazon.com/Hearing-Message-Habakkuk-Living-Violent/dp/0310147484/ * God's People in God's Land - https://www.amazon.com/Gods-People-Land-Testament-Theological/dp/0853648085 * Understanding Mission - https://understandingmission.org/ Resources mentioned: * Langham Partnership - https://us.langham.org/ * Habakkuk: How Long, O LORD? (Playlist) - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4bbdsVUgfc6GzQTbrpn5tGArQcw-pCil&si=0PJ4UPrfSQr8Q5Qf * Top 4 Recommended Books on OT Law - https://youtu.be/8ixSCH1uhJI ***Disciple Dojo shirts and other gifts are available over in our online store! - https://www.zazzle.com/DiscipleDojo ***Become a monthly Dojo Donor and help keep us going! - https://www.discipledojo.org/donate ***Dojo Donor Patches: If you are a monthly donor and would like an iron-on DiscipleDojo patch, supplies are limited so message JM directly via the contact page at https://www.discipledojo.org/contact ***If you are an unmarried Christian looking for community, check out our Facebook group “The Grownup's Table” over at www.facebook.com/groups/grownupstable ------ Go deeper at www.discipledojo.org

2 Timothy 2:2 - In this message, the pastor emphasizes that the church's mission is grounded in the Great Commandment and the Great Commission — to love God, love others, and make disciples who make disciples. He contrasts a consumer model of church with Jesus' organic, relational model of training and reproducing disciples through teaching, tasking, and accountability.

January 11th, 2026 Pastor Chad McDonald Christianity is not simply the accumulation of knowledge. It is the transformation of our lives into the image of Christ and then transferring what we have come to know and experience to others. It is the passion of Christ because it is the passion of the Father. It should be our passion. It is our mission. The work of Christ and the gospel is not left to the trained professionals. It is something that God has called us to do. It is helping men and women realize both their full potential and great joy in serving the Lord. It is not sitting in the stands. It is getting into the game. At the beginning of each year we take time to remember and refocus ourselves on the mission given to us by Christ. Just like any organization, the church is prone to mission drift. I pray that you will join us this weekend as we refocus and recalibrate our lives upon the Great Commission. In Christ, Pastor Chad

Pastor Mark is continuing the series on walking out the Great Commission using the prophet Micah's words as a springboard for action.

In this visionary message, David Swart reflects on the incredible milestones of 2025—from record-breaking generosity to lives transformed by the Gospel. Using Matthew 28 as a roadmap, he challenges the congregation to move beyond being "Christians" to becoming "disciples" who are trained and sent. The service culminates in the historic commissioning of the Worthington site team, marking a new chapter in the church's mission to reach the city and the world.Be sure to follow 614 Church online:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/614_church/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/614church/Website: https://www.614church.orgTo support our ministry, https://614church.org/give/To fill out a contact card so we can stay in touch, click the link below!https://614.churchcenter.com/people/forms/283193Until Everyone Knows Jesus.0:00 – Celebrating God's Faithfulness in 20253:24 – The Fruit of Radical Generosity5:33 – Life Groups: The Heart of Community7:01 – Reclaiming the Great Commission Mission9:21 – Until Everyone Knows Jesus Intimately12:53 – Discipleship Environments vs. Private Faith22:42 – Serving as a Path to Spiritual Formation27:19 – Commissioning the New Worthington Site Team

Welcome, beloved saints of the Most High! I'm Rod Thomas, and I'm honored to bring you another installment of the Messianic Torah Observer. On this unusually warm Preparation Day here in DFW, I invite you to join me as we tackle a provocative question: Have we truly finished the Great Commission—and could this be the very thing that triggers the End Times? In this episode, I share my personal reflections and biblical analysis after reading a recent BlazeTV article featuring global missions leader Douglas Cobb. Cobb claims that within the next decade, every people group on earth will have access to the Gospel, and that this milestone could unleash the End Times and prompt the return of Messiah. But is this really what Scripture teaches? Here's what you can expect as I walk you through this timely discussion: My take on Cobb's claims: I break down the metrics and milestones cited by mission organizations, including Bible translation efforts and church planting, and ask whether these truly fulfill Yeshua's mandate. A deep dive into the Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24): We'll explore the sequence of events Yeshua said must occur before the End comes, and what it means for the Gospel to be preached to all nations. The true meaning of the Great Commission: I challenge the idea that simply distributing Bibles or building churches is enough. Instead, I emphasize the importance of teaching, modeling, and living out the Gospel of the Kingdom—Yeshua-focused Torah Living. Why I believe the Great Commission is far from complete: Drawing from Scripture and history, I argue that the true Gospel has not been proclaimed to any appreciable degree since the early centuries AD, and that the Church Triumphant has missed the mark. Comparing Christian traditions: I discuss how Catholics, Orthodox, Protestants, Evangelicals, and Charismatics each interpret the Great Commission differently—and why many approaches fall short of true discipleship. Who decides when the mission is complete? Only Abba Yah knows the times and seasons. I reflect on what it means for us to walk in covenant, obey Torah, and embody Kingdom principles as we await Messiah's return. A call to action: I invite you to consider your own relationship with Yehovah and encourage you to seek true discipleship, covenant living, and a deeper understanding of the Gospel of the Kingdom. Throughout this episode, I share my heart, my convictions, and my hope that we, as a remnant of elect and chosen ones, will rise to fulfill the true Great Commission in these last days. If you have questions, need prayer, or want to connect, please reach out to me at perceptionwp@gmail.com or leave a voice message at themessianictorahobserver.org. Referenced links: https://www.theblaze.com/shows/steve-deace-show/are-we-about-to-complete-the-great-commission-and-unleash-the-end-times?utm_source=theblaze-dailyAM&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Daily-Newsletter__AM%202026-01-01&utm_term=ACTIVE%20LIST%20-%20TheBlaze%20Daily%20AM&tpcc=email&sailthru_id=56505f1b487ccda2018c2d48&mb=Y https://roodstore.com/products/the-chronological-gospels-bible-second-edition?variant=40088970985547 https://rstne.com/ Thank you for spending time with me today. May you be most blessed, fellow saints in training. Take care, and let's continue to walk the narrow path together until our King returns!  

"Every follower of Christ is a Christian, but not every Christian is a follower of Christ."This week, Pastor Sam dives into the heart of the Great Commission and the 21 times Jesus issued the invitation: "Follow me." In an age where we are constantly being "discipled" by social media influencers, political movements, and corporate marketing, this message is a clarion call to reclaim our primary identity as apprentices of Rabbi Jesus.In This Episode, We Discuss:The Two-Tier Church: Why we've created a culture where following Jesus is seen as "extra credit" rather than the baseline for faith.The Identity of a Disciple: Understanding that being a disciple is a noun—an identity—not just a Sunday activity.Intentional vs. Unintentional Formation: How the "cybernetic jungle" of our modern world is forming us into monsters unless we intentionally allow Jesus to form us into His likeness.The Three Goals of an Apprentice:To be with your Rabbi: Making time to practice the presence of God.To become like your Rabbi: Allowing proximity to Jesus to rewrite your neuropathways and character.To do what your Rabbi did: Stepping out in the authority of the Holy Spirit to serve, heal, and love.

Acts 1:1-3Pastor Justin DancerAs we enter a new year, we have a fresh opportunity to deepen our relationship with Christ and recommit to His mission. The Book of Acts serves as more than historical documentation—it represents a continuing story in which modern believers actively participate. We are living in Acts 29, where Jesus continues the work He began during His earthly ministry through His body, the church.Going deeper in our walk with Jesus requires intentional commitment rather than perfectionist performance. Three transformative practices can guide this journey: consistent church attendance with family, monthly Scripture memorization beginning with Acts 1:8, and daily Bible reading through the New Testament. These disciplines embed God's Word in our hearts and minds while strengthening our relationship with Christ.The Book of Acts reveals four foundational truths that remain relevant today. First, Jesus began something that continues through His people—His work didn't end at the ascension but continues through believers. Second, we have received clear commands, particularly the Great Commission to make disciples of all nations. Third, Jesus is alive and active today, not just a historical figure but a present reality who strengthens and guides us. Finally, God's kingdom exists now wherever Jesus reigns as Lord. Our response to these truths should be worship, surrender, and obedience to the King of Kings, recognizing that ordinary people can accomplish extraordinary things when they make themselves available for God's use.

Join Dallas and Carlos as they conclude their study of the Gospel of Mark by exploring the "longer ending" of chapter 16. In this episode, they tackle the textual theories surrounding these verses, the historical reliability of the New Testament, and the profound commission Jesus gave His followers before His ascension. From the disbelief of the disciples to the miraculous signs that followed the early church, this discussion highlights the authority of Christ and the call to take the Gospel to all creation. Listen as we discuss: The textual history of Mark 16 and why the New Testament remains the most reliable ancient document in existence. The appearances of Jesus to Mary Magdalene and the two travelers, noting the disciples' initial struggle with unbelief. The "spiritual scatterbrain" and chaos the disciples felt in the days following the crucifixion. Jesus' rebuke of the Eleven for their hardness of heart and His subsequent command to preach the Gospel to the whole world. The spiritual significance of baptism as an outward proclamation of an internal immersion in Christ. Understanding "signs" like healing and protection as miracles that follow believers rather than commands to be forced. The theological importance of the Ascension and Jesus sitting at the "right hand of God" as a position of ultimate authority and intercession. ==========

Ministry Mentorship: Why Leaders Must Stay Teachablewith Bryan StuparIn this episode of the Expositors Collective podcast, Bryan Stupar reflects on pastoral and ministry mentorship, not as a leadership technique or growth strategy, but as a deeply biblical, historical, and relational pattern of discipleship.Drawing from Scripture, church history, and decades of pastoral experience, Bryan argues that formation in ministry requires proximity, humility, and a posture of lifelong learning. Mentorship, he suggests, is not optional for Christian leaders because even Jesus, in His humanity, learned obedience through suffering. If growth and formation marked the life of Christ, how much more must leaders remain teachable.Bryan begins by rooting mentorship in the Great Commission, showing that discipleship necessarily involves teaching, modelling, and replication. He then explores the relationship between Paul and Timothy as an example of life-on-life formation that extends far beyond content delivery to include conduct, character, faith, and endurance.The episode also addresses the cultural challenges facing leaders today, particularly the pull of expressive individualism and self-centred leadership. Bryan contrasts this with the way of Jesus, which calls leaders to humility, service, and continual growth rather than performance and self-promotion.Along the way, he traces the historical roots of mentorship, from Homer's Odyssey to pivotal Christian relationships such as Ambrose and Augustine, showing how faithful investment in others has shaped the church across generations. He then turns practical, highlighting the benefits of mentorship: growth through feedback, grace-filled support, and guidance through modelling.Bryan closes with personal reflections from his own pastoral journey, sharing how mentors shaped him through honest conversations, observation, and lived example. His encouragement is simple but challenging: none of us grow alone, and faithful ministry requires inviting trusted voices to speak into our lives.This conversation is a reminder that Christian leadership is formed over time, in community, and always with Jesus as the aim.For information about our upcoming training events visit ExpositorsCollective.com Join our private Facebook group to continue the conversation: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ExpositorsCollective

Jesus Followers Must Meet Jesus' Expectation of His “Great Commission” By Both “Going” and “Making Disciples” MESSAGE SUMMARY: Jesus, in Luke 15:4-7, tells us, through His Parable of The Lost Sheep, the importance to God of our discipleship: “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.' Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.".   Immediately before His Ascension into Heaven Jesus told the Apostles and us today, in His Great Commission found in Matthew 28:18-20, that as we go into our communities and into all parts of the world, we are to make disciples: “And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 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.'”. We must begin, as followers of Jesus, to meet His fundamental expectation for us by both going and making disciples!   TODAY'S PRAYER: Abba Father, I open my clenched fists to surrender everything you have given to me. Reestablish my identity in you — not in my family, my work, my accomplishments, or what others think of me. Cleanse the things in me that are not conformed to your will. By faith I unite my will to yours so that the likeness of Jesus Christ may be formed in me. In his name, amen.         Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 85). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, because I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Self-Centeredness. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit's fruit of Love. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Matthew 28:18-20; Matthew 10:16; Matthew 16:24-28; Psalms 29:1-11. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “The Struggle with Time -- Until I Determine How We Want to Use Our Time, Others Will Determine How Our Time Is Used”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

How do you keep the Gospel alive and at the center of your work? Start with the quiet, world-changing truth that Jesus loves you. He gave His life to save you. And He is with you today—right now—to enlighten, strengthen, and free you. When we put that message at the heart of everything—our conversations, our ministries, our families—it changes everything. In this episode, I'll share why this matters and how you can make it part of your everyday life. [00:34] Understanding Evangelization [02:01] Defining Evangelization [03:22] Misconceptions About Evangelization [06:34] The Heart of Evangelization [09:54] Practical Steps for Everyday Preaching [12:08] Closing Thoughts and Prayer For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

In Roles & Direction, Kimberly Dirmann shares how believers can discover and walk out God's plan for their lives by seeking Him, listening to the Holy Spirit, and writing down His direction. This message offers practical steps for identifying your God-given roles in this season and living intentionally so you fulfill what God has already prepared for you.MORE...« Jesus Disciple » God is calling believers EVERYWHERE to be a part of fulfilling the Great Commission, making disciples around the world. Get free resources and find out more at BeJesusDisciple.com.« Support the Jesus Disciple Vision » Give at https://jesusdisciple.com/give/« Solid Lives » To find out more about the ministry of Solid Lives, visit https://solidlives.com/« Support » Help us get free resources out to more people. To support the ministry of Solid Lives, please visit https://solidlives.com/give/« Podcasts » Listen to weekly messages or a daily episode from The New Testament Daily podcast here: https://solidlives.com/podcast/Support the show

In this week's episode, Alex and Scott welcome pastor Aaron Menikoff (Atlanta, USA) and pastor Harshit Singh (Lucknow, India) to discuss how evangelism and missions function through the local church, particularly in the Indian context. Drawing from their book Prioritizing Missions in the Church, Menikoff and Singh argue that missions should not be treated as a side program but as an outflow of ordinary, faithful church life. They emphasize that preaching, prayer, discipleship, and the ordinances—when practiced consistently—form the foundation through which God raises up and sends missionaries to the nations. The conversation highlights how this church-centered approach applies across cultures, including settings with limited resources and growing opposition to Christianity. Key Topics Missions as the beating heart of the local church, not a side program The role of ordinary means of grace (preaching, prayer, ordinances) in global missions A biblical definition of missions as crossing cultural, linguistic, and geographic barriers Practical ways churches can embed missions into regular church life Discipleship and long-term theological training for future missionaries Do you love The Missions Podcast? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Podcast and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionspodcast.com/premium The Missions Podcast is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

To start off a new year, we are launching a journey through the book of Acts, where we see how the risen Christ continues His work through a Spirit-empowered church. We explore how the Great Commission requires supernatural empowerment—fulfilled at Pentecost when the Holy Spirit ignited ordinary believers with boldness, power, and purpose. From the Upper Room to the ends of the earth, this message reminds us that the same Spirit who birthed the early church still empowers us today to live, speak, and stand as witnesses for Jesus.

Pastor Ike casts vision for 2026, calling the church to pursue God's preferred future by living out the Great Commission, the Great Commandments, and the Great Compassion. This message challenges us to reach our community with both hands—showing compassion and justice while boldly inviting others to follow Jesus—and to believe that the gospel can truly change lives and the world.

In this stirring new season of the Commands of Christ Podcast, we move from principle to practice—tracing the commands of Jesus through the lives of men and women who lived them out with passion, humility, and dependence on Him. Christ's Commands in Action invites us into the stories of ordinary individuals throughout church history who, by God's grace, lived extraordinary lives marked by obedience to the Word of Christ. From well-known names like Hudson Taylor and George Müller to lesser-known saints whose quiet faith shaped generations, each biographical sketch highlights a specific command of Jesus, showing what it looks like to put His Word into action. More than historical recollection, this season is a call to follow Christ as others have before us—not by exalting people, but by glorifying the power and presence of God working through flawed, but faithful vessels. These testimonies build our faith, exalt the risen Christ, and offer practical encouragement for how we too can walk as His disciples today. As we explore a new life each week, we'll be reminded that the same Christ who empowered them is alive in us—and that His commands are not just to be studied, but lived.

We've confused discipleship with information. But Jesus never said, “Come and take notes.” He said, “Come and follow Me.”In this powerful first message from the Come and See Conference, Lisa Schwarz calls us back to the heart of biblical discipleship—an immersive, relational, and transformational way of life. Drawing from Jesus' own model, she unpacks why the Great Commission isn't just about making converts, but producing multipliers.You'll discover: • Why discipleship must be demonstrated, not just taught • How spiritual transformation requires more than biblical knowledge • The difference between knowing the Word and doing it • Why relationship, imitation, and practice are the keys to multiplicationThis message is an invitation to embody the life of Jesus, not simply admire His teachings.Because discipleship is proven by demonstration, not declaration.To go deeper, read: Come and See: The Jesus Approach to Equipping Biblical DisciplesStay connected: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/buFNYvv Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this lecture, the speaker, Pastor Ian, addresses the congregation as they embark on a new year filled with varied emotions stemming from current events and personal experiences. He acknowledges the complexity of feelings such as rage, fear, sadness, and grief, emphasizing the importance of bringing these emotions into the community without judgment. Ian shares an update regarding the church's visa application process for a new pastor, interpreting the request for further information as a positive sign of progress.Shifting focus, Ian introduces the church's tradition of studying one of the Gospels from January through Easter, this year choosing to delve into Matthew's Gospel. He provides context about the significance of Matthew's Gospel in early Christianity, noting its widespread circulation and prominence among the Gospels in the first few centuries post-Jesus. Ian highlights distinctive stories and teachings found in Matthew, such as the Sermon on the Mount and the Great Commission, while also acknowledging the challenging aspects of the text that reflect the divisions surrounding Jesus's ministry.Throughout the series, the preaching team aims to present a representative sampling of Matthew's Gospel, covering various teachings, miracles, and narratives, albeit with the understanding that not all segments can be included within the limited timeframe until Easter. Ian encourages the congregation to engage with Matthew's text personally as a supplement to the preaching, framing the main goal of the series as fostering a deeper understanding of who Jesus is and how his presence and mission resonate in their lives.Next, Ian addresses the passage of Matthew's genealogy, warning that while the listing of names may be daunting, it serves a profound purpose. He suggests that understanding ancient genealogies differs from modern ones, with a stronger emphasis on symbolic identity rather than genetic lineage. Ian explains that Matthew's genealogy highlights key figures such as Abraham and David, establishing Jesus's identity and connection to significant biblical promises. He outlines the importance of these figures in the Jewish narrative and how they relate to the fulfillment of God's intentions through Jesus.Focusing on Abraham, Ian discusses the meaning of Jesus being a descendant of Abraham and the far-reaching implications of God's promises to him. He mentions Abraham's pivotal role in the formation of the Jewish nation and the expansiveness of God's blessing meant for all nations through Abraham's lineage. Ian encourages reflection on how individuals perceive blessings and the responsibility that comes with them, using analogies like the contrasting fates of the Dead Sea and the Sea of Galilee to emphasize the importance of being conduits of blessings to others.As he transitions to David, the speaker elaborates on David's reign and legacy, underscoring the duality of his achievements and moral failures. David's lineage is crucial as it relates to the promise of a lasting kingdom. Ian raises the question of Jesus's rightful claim to David's throne, challenging the congregation to discern which "kings" they follow in their own lives amidst many contemporary voices.The discussion progresses to the theme of exile, framing Jesus as the one who embodies the resolution to humanity's search for homecoming and restoration. Ian posits that the true essence of understanding Jesus as the Messiah draws from the culmination of these genealogical identities and historical promises. Through a lens of repentance and reception of Jesus, the pastor indicates that each individual's response to Jesus—be it acceptance or rejection—determines their journey toward spiritual homecoming.In closing, Ian offers a heartfelt prayer, inviting the community to seek God's presence throughout the new year. He underscores the significance of divine companionship and support as they navigate challenges and opportunities alike, fostering a collective reliance on God's guidance. The lecture concludes with a call to worship, reinforcing the community's commitment to following Jesus as their true king and embracing the promise of restoration and blessing that stems from understanding their faith through the lens of Matthew's Gospel.

Guest preacher Caleb Hunt talks about the Great Commission.Some of the most critical moments in life don't fall apart because the message is wrong. They fall apart because the message gets lost. Either lost in translation, in tone, or in how it's carried.Jesus tells his disciples: "As the Father has sent me, so I am sending you."This simple line presses into the heart of what it means to be sent: not just with truth, but with grace; not from comfort, but through sacrifice; not to a few, but to all. It's an invitation to listen closely, to notice where God is already at work, and to ask a brave question: How is He sending me?Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on January 4, 2026, at 8:00am. You can find us online at nwhills.com.Key Moments00:00 Welcome01:32 Message: Embodying the Great Commission04:46 The Great Commission in John 2007:08 Jesus' Mission: Grace and Truth09:35 Jesus' Mission: Sacrificial Servant11:52 Jesus' Mission: For All People15:16 Conclusion and Prayer

As we transition from Christmas into the new year, may we focus on the main reason we exist, to know Christ and make Him known! May your time in God's word, and your fellowshipping with the body of Christ strengthen your faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope held out in the gospel.Prepare for this week's sermon and this new year to come by reflecting on Jesus' great commission and great command:The Great Command:Matthew 22:34-40 Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, the Pharisees got together. One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”The Great Commission:Matthew 28:18-20 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

What do you do when you’re trying to follow Jesus… and your heart keeps bouncing between worship and doubt? In this message from Matthew 28:16–20, Pastor Joel Hastings walks us through the Great Commission and highlights one of the most surprising details in the entire scene: “they worshiped Him, but some doubted.” Before Jesus sends His disciples into the world, He calls them to Himself—because we can’t live “sent” lives unless we’re first being formed by Him. Here’s what we’re learning as we begin our new series, Formed & Sent: Jesus isn’t looking for the most impressive people—He’s looking for disciples who will keep their eyes on Him, come back to worship, and obey… even in the middle of doubt. Here's a couple key takeaways • Jesus calls you to Himself before He sends you out. • Doubt doesn’t disqualify you—it’s an invitation to believe and obey again. • When you take your eyes off Jesus, you sink… but a simple prayer still changes everything: “Lord, save me.”

Segment 1 • Todd and Scott show that friendship can be retained through disagreements. • Sarcasm, speed, and shallow online takes destroy meaningful conversations. • The gospel must be at the front of pro-life work. Segment 2 • Atheists can follow the logic of pro-life arguments—but without God, they borrow Christian morality. • Scott sees pro-life work as a Great Commission issue, not just a cultural cause. • Gospel clarity matters: imputed righteousness vs. infused goodness makes all the difference. Segment 3 • Can Christians work with Catholics, rabbis, and others on pro-life issues without endorsing false unity? • Scott speaks at ecumenical events, but maintains theological distinctions. • Abolition vs. incrementalism isn't a moral divide. We all want the same outcome. Segment 4 • Everyone's an abolitionist in principle, but our political reality often forces incremental action. • True moral conviction works within constraints to save as many as possible. • Incremental efforts have saved lives, and abandoning them over idealism can cost more innocent lives. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn't be more thankful for you if we tried!

Segment 1 • Todd and Scott show that friendship can be retained through disagreements. • Sarcasm, speed, and shallow online takes destroy meaningful conversations. • The gospel must be at the front of pro-life work. Segment 2 • Atheists can follow the logic of pro-life arguments—but without God, they borrow Christian morality. • Scott sees pro-life work as a Great Commission issue, not just a cultural cause. • Gospel clarity matters: imputed righteousness vs. infused goodness makes all the difference. Segment 3 • Can Christians work with Catholics, rabbis, and others on pro-life issues without endorsing false unity? • Scott speaks at ecumenical events, but maintains theological distinctions. • Abolition vs. incrementalism isn't a moral divide. We all want the same outcome. Segment 4 • Everyone's an abolitionist in principle, but our political reality often forces incremental action. • True moral conviction works within constraints to save as many as possible. • Incremental efforts have saved lives, and abandoning them over idealism can cost more innocent lives. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn't be more thankful for you if we tried! -

The first word of the Great Commission is an important one . . . and a challenging one. “GO and make disciples.” “How ‘bout if we STAY and make disciples? Can’t we just phone it in. Can we text them? Maybe a clever meme on social media?” No, today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out how we need to go and share our faith on their turf. We can’t expect them to come to church, Jesus expects us to go and meet them right where they are. Today’s talk is from our series of best of messages. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The first word of the Great Commission is an important one . . . and a challenging one. “GO and make disciples.” “How ‘bout if we STAY and make disciples? Can’t we just phone it in. Can we text them? Maybe a clever meme on social media?” No, today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out how we need to go and share our faith on their turf. We can’t expect them to come to church, Jesus expects us to go and meet them right where they are. Today’s talk is from our series of best of messages. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.