Devotion: “Go to the Nations: No Borders in the Great Commission”
Scripture Reading:
“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.”
— Matthew 28:19 (RSV)
Personal Reflection:
When Jesus first sent out His disciples, He told them clearly: “Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel” (Matthew 10:6). But now, after His resurrection and just before His ascension, He commands something radically different: “Go... to all nations.” No longer were the boundaries of ethnicity, religion, or geography to limit the reach of the gospel.
The Greek word translated “nations” is ta ethne—a term used by the Jews to refer to Gentiles, or all non-Israelites, often associated with idolatry and ignorance of the true God. Jesus, the Jewish Messiah, now sends His followers into the world to disciple everyone—even the outsiders, the outcasts, the overlooked.
That includes your neighbors, your co-workers, the single mom at the grocery store, the struggling teenager, the hardened skeptic, and yes—even those whose lifestyles make you uncomfortable. The gospel has no restrictions. The Great Commission breaks down every wall we tend to build up.
“The gospel is not for one race or one class, but for all.” — Charles Spurgeon
Contemplation:
Take a moment to examine your heart. Are there people or groups of people you’ve subconsciously excluded from your willingness to share Christ? Do you, perhaps unknowingly, place restrictions on who you’re willing to disciple?
Remember, in the Hebraic mindset, the teacher chooses the student. Jesus calls you to choose—to intentionally invest in others with the goal of leading them into a deeper relationship with Him. But that means choosing without bias, prejudice, or favoritism.
“God had one Son and He made Him a missionary.” — David Livingstone
Who around you might be waiting for someone to show them the way? You won’t disciple everyone. Even Jesus focused on twelve. But the point is to be faithful with who God puts in your path—and not to disqualify anyone based on race, background, or appearance.
Prayer:
Father,
Thank You that You sent Jesus not only for Israel, but for the world—including me. Thank You that You have called me to go—not just geographically, but intentionally—into every sphere of life You’ve placed me.
Forgive me for limiting who I’m willing to disciple. Cleanse my heart of any hidden bias or prejudice. Help me to see people as You see them—souls in need of the Savior. Lead me by Your Spirit to those You are calling, and give me boldness and love to walk with them into discipleship.
Lord, use my ordinary life to reach all kinds of people with the extraordinary message of Your grace.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
Today’s Challenge:
Ask the Holy Spirit to show you one person—perhaps someone you’ve overlooked—whom He is calling you to begin discipling. Pray for that person, look for an opportunity to connect, and be intentional about sharing your life and your faith. Remember: the nations may be closer than you think.
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