The last words of Jesus in Matthews Gospel are an exhortation even an order to go and make students of all the nations to baptize them and teach people to keep on doing what Jesus taught.
( I should note there that matheuoo could also be translated as instruct rather than make to learn though it was strengthened by the use of the Imperative)
I'm going to analyze this paragraph in more detail over the next few weekends but first I want you to consider one word:
EXOUSIA
Verse 18 in the final chapter
"It has been given to me ..."
Power and Authority over all heaven and earth!
What a startling statement this is when you give it deeper thought.
Many of my readers may be thinking "Yes Jesus is Lord!" but think about how great this power is!
Jesus is saying to his disciples that he has power greater than the Roman emperors and the magistrates and officials who served i,t or the temple theocracy or other powers, human , and more than human! Think how shocking that use of exousia would be to people in the first century who saw Rome dominating the known world.
Does he tell the disciples to worship him or rebuke them for doubting his resurrection?
No he commands them to do what he did, to travel about and teach others, to continue and complete the ongoing mission.
I end by reminding you what Jesus stated to be the two greatest commandments.
Love God and your neighbors with all your heart mind and soul.
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