SCRIPTURE
"Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. 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 I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:16-20)
OBSERVATION
This passage, commonly called "The Great Commission," was Jesus' charge to his followers just before he ascended back into heaven after his resurrection. The disciples were on the mountain and they were worshiping him. The text seems to indicate not all of them had a strong, ready to conquer the world faith at this point because "some doubted." What did they doubt? Doubted he was alive, doubted the events of the last few weeks, doubted who Jesus was. It could be all or none of these. One thing we do know is that mixed in this crowd of eleven some had doubts. Jesus reassures them by saying he has all authority in heaven and earth so what he is about to say, "Go and make disciples," has tremendous weight. What about the doubters? He says, "Don't worry, I am with you always." Those who doubted were still given the commision and were expected to be part of it.
APPLICATION
I love the way the bible portrays authentic, genuine faith. Here it doesn't gloss over the fact that even after Jesus resurrection there were some who doubted. He was standing in their midst, talking to them, and their minds were still conflicted. I can feel the same way. Doubts and questions arise. Not so much about who Jesus is but about who I am. Can I really do what he's called me to do? Namely, to go and make disciples. Yes I can. Even in the midst of doubts and uncertainties, because I know he is with me. When I doubt I can still be part of the commission to make disciples because Jesus says "I'm with you on your mission."
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for your abiding presence. It is what helps give me the strength to do what you've called me to do even when I doubt my own strength.
