Call to Mission: “Extending the Hands of Love and Hope to the World"

Rev. Arturo Mendez

 

Sermon: Text: Matt: 28:16-20

 

Sermon Theme: A Call to Mission: “Extending the Hands of Love and Hope to the World"

 

 

Grace and peace be with you,

 

I would like to start different today, just think for a moment what it is the most greatest places that you have been on vacations, or what is your favorite dish that you like it a lot and you want to talk about it, for example I would like to share with you my last year vacations in Colorado Springs, and I would like to share with you, and please don’t miss understand my point, cause I really don’t want be boastful,  but I really want that you had the same special moment that we have, we really enjoy it a lot, for example the first day we ride with horses in the garden of the gods, beautiful place to visit, then the second day we ride the train on the side of the Arkansas river, the third day we do ziplining and boat rafting in the river we had a great experience, and I would like that you have the same special time we had and you join with me this Trip, so I wish that you can have those special moments wit your love ones or  why not with some friends as well. 

Or what about your favorite dish from some restaurants, like for example, I love one particular one, because they have a smoke salmon, and great cuts of meat, picanha,  grill cheese with honey, etc.. so my point again is not to be boastful please don’t miss my point. My point is that I love to share with you something that I really love and enjoy  and that’s why I share with you because I wish that you could have the same joy if is the word to use,  we have, my family and I.  

So the key of the point is, when you like something or you have a great experience but I don’t Like this Word in This because Here is not at experiencial moment or what your feelings are no, but the Joy to be in a place that you love, make senese my Point? And you like to share with others, what you have been how great was to be there etc.. so what about our time and joy in Church? Do we share? as we are together Disciples of Christ ? 

 

So  my brothers and sisters in Christ. As we gather here today I would like to share with you This Quote form Scripture,  of the words of our Lord Jesus Christ in the  book of  Matthew, chapter 28, verses 16 to 20. And its significance and the meaning as a Disciples of Christ.

 

      ¹⁶ Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. ¹⁷ And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. 18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in[b] the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

 

 

In this, we find the disciples of Jesus standing before Him on a mountain in Galilee. Having witnessed His resurrection, they were now faced with a commission, a charge that would shape the future of the Church. The words that Christ spoke on that day hold great weight and meaning for us, the body of believers, even to this day.

 

It is crucial for us, to approach this passage with a firm understanding of the distinction between law and gospel. We recognize that these words from Christ are not to be seen as a command in the legalistic sense, but rather as a directive born out of grace and love. So if we use a proper lenses that allows us to properly grasp the intention behind the words of Jesus, discerning the true nature of our calling as disciples of Christ we together can be so joyfull in his message.

 

Jesus did not simply command His followers to "go," as is often emphasized, but He revealed a profound truth by saying, "As you go." This  distinction illuminates the fact that the Christian life is not confined to a specific place or time. Instead, it encompasses every aspect of our being, infiltrating our daily interactions and permeating our various roles and vocations in life. The Great Commission is not solely an external mandate, but an internal transformation that shapes our character, motives, and actions.

 

As a Lutherans, we understand that the heart of this commission lies in making disciples, baptizing them, and teaching them to observe all that Christ commanded. It is not a mere numerical expansion of the Church, but a deep and genuine desire to bring others into a personal relationship with Christ, where they too can hear what we heard and to be able to be present where we are been too, to be partakers of His grace like we are. Through baptism, the sacraments of the word, partaking into the body and Blood of Christ, we are united with Him and with one another in the fellowship of faith and also them can be united as well with the same body of Christ, his Church. So disciple means to teach others what we have been heard, to take care those who are being Baptized, to Guide them to take care them. With the Help of the holy spirit. That’s the real meaning of be Disciple of Christ to be Taught. And to share in our dalily Vocations with others what we have being learned. Make Sense ? 

 

So Furthermore, if we places a strong emphasis on teaching. We are called not only to teach the doctrines and truths of Scripture, but also to guide and nurture others in living out the teachings of Christ in their daily lives. This comprehensive approach to teaching encompasses the whole counsel of God, recognizing the interconnection  of all His Word and the significance of embracing a life of hearing His Word and the desire to share with others what we have this Hope of Life eternal in Heaven, by the Grace and Forgiveness of Christ and that they can have the same we have that gift of Life Eternal by Faith in Christ Jesus.

 

So Then let us approach to the words of our Lord Jesus Christ in Matthew 28:16-20 with a mindset, embracing the depth of His love and grace. As we journey through this passage, let us be reminded that our mission is not confined to a specific command to "go," but rather to embrace a life where we make disciples, baptize, and teach others as we go forth in the name of Christ. 

 

let us further explore how the "as you go" aspect of the Great Commission impacts our relationships and daily vocations. As a Disciples,  we understand that our faith is not meant to be compartmentalized or confined to our time spent within the walls of the church. Rather, it is a living faith that permeates every aspect of our lives, including our relationships and daily vocations.

 

In our relationships with others, whether it be within our families, workplaces, or communities, we are called to embody the love, grace, and truth of Christ. As we go about our daily interactions, we have the opportunity to demonstrate the how the Lord by his Grace has been forgiven through the means of the Gospel and through our words and actions. Our lives become a testimony to the redemptive work of Christ, inviting others to experience His love and forgiveness. Even though I don’t like the word Experience because it is not by Experiential or emotions and feelings, but I used this word to make more sense what I want to be meant. The great Gift of Forgiveness, our world has lived a lives so hopeless, without knowing the love and Forgiveness of Christ.

 

This implies that our relationships are not merely transactional or superficial, but they become avenues for discipleship. We have the privilege to engage with others, seeking to understand their needs, joys, and struggles. By extending compassion, empathy, and support, we reflect the heart of our Savior and open doors for conversations about faith and the hope we have in Christ. Through intentional acts of kindness, encouragement, and forgiveness, we demonstrate the tangible reality of God's kingdom in our midst.

 

Furthermore, the "as you go" aspect of the Great Commission influences our understanding of our daily vocations. As a Disciples of Christ, we affirm the priesthood of all believers, recognizing that every Christian has a divine calling and purpose in their respective occupations and roles. Whether we are doctors, teachers, engineers, Mechanichs, or parents, etc… our vocation becomes a platform for serving God and serving others.

 

By embracing excellence, integrity, and compassion in our work, we bear witness to the glory of God and the inherent value of human labor. We engage in our vocations as agents of God's redemptive work in the world, seeking to bring forth justice, mercy, and reconciliation in the spheres where we have been placed. Our commitment to excellence and ethical conduct becomes a testimony to the transformative Forgivness of Christ in our lives.

 

In sharing the message of the Great Commission, we must remember that our words carry weight when they are accompanied by a life that reflects the teachings of Christ. Genuine relationships built on trust, authenticity, and humility provide a fertile ground for sharing the Gospel. We must be sensitive to the needs and questions of others, listening attentively and responding with grace and truth.

 

By engaging in intentional conversations, studying Scripture together, and demonstrating the relevance of God's Word in our own lives, we invite others to embark on a journey of discipleship. We nurture an environment where questions are welcomed, doubts are acknowledged, and seekers find a safe space to explore the claims of Christianity. Through our words and actions, we communicate that the Gospel is not merely a set of doctrines, but a transformative relationship with a living Savior.

 

So now  let us embrace the "as you go" aspect of the Great Commission in our relationships and daily vocations. May our lives be a living testament to the love and grace of Christ, inviting others to encounter Him through our words, deeds, and genuine care. May the Holy Spirit guide us as we seek to be faithful witnesses, 

 

 

Dear brothers and sisters, as we heard  the message of Matthew 28:, may we be inspired to live as true disciples of Christ. And the desire to share and May we cultivate a deep and intimate relationship with our Lord, allowing His love to permeate every aspect of our lives. May our words and actions reflect the grace, truth, and compassion of Christ, drawing others closer to Him. And may we, as living examples of discipleship, bring the message of hope, forgiveness, and salvation to a world in need. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, who reigns now and forever. Amen.