Introduction

The concept of continuing Jesus' mission is central to the Christian faith, emphasizing the responsibility of believers to carry forward the work initiated by Jesus Christ during His earthly ministry. This mission encompasses evangelism, discipleship, service, and the embodiment of Christ's teachings in daily life. The New Testament provides a framework for understanding and executing this mission, with Jesus' Great Commission serving as a foundational directive.

The Great Commission

The Great Commission, as recorded in Matthew 28:18-20, serves as the primary mandate for continuing Jesus' mission. Jesus commands His disciples: "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 all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age" . This passage underscores the global scope of the mission and the assurance of Christ's presence with His followers.

Empowerment by the Holy Spirit

The continuation of Jesus' mission is empowered by the Holy Spirit, as promised by Jesus in Acts 1:8: "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth" . The Holy Spirit equips believers with the necessary gifts and boldness to proclaim the Gospel and live out Christ's teachings.

Evangelism and Discipleship

Evangelism is a core component of continuing Jesus' mission, as believers are called to share the Gospel message with others. Romans 10:14-15 highlights the importance of preaching: "How then can they call on the One in whom they have not believed? And how can they believe in the One of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone to preach? And how can they preach unless they are sent?" . Discipleship involves nurturing new believers in their faith, teaching them to observe Christ's commands, and helping them grow in spiritual maturity.

Service and Compassion

Jesus' mission also includes acts of service and compassion, reflecting His love and care for humanity. In Matthew 25:35-40, Jesus emphasizes the importance of serving others: "For I was hungry and you gave Me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave Me something to drink, I was a stranger and you took Me in, I was naked and you clothed Me, I was sick and you looked after Me, I was in prison and you visited Me" . Believers are called to serve those in need, demonstrating the love of Christ through tangible actions.

Living as Christ's Ambassadors

Believers are called to be ambassadors for Christ, representing Him in the world. 2 Corinthians 5:20 states, "Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ: Be reconciled to God" . This role involves living a life that reflects Christ's character and values, influencing others through word and deed.

Perseverance in Mission

Continuing Jesus' mission requires perseverance, as believers may face opposition and challenges. Jesus warned His followers of persecution in John 15:18-20: "If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first. If you were of the world, it would love you as its own. Instead, the world hates you, because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world" . Despite these challenges, believers are encouraged to remain steadfast, trusting in God's faithfulness and the ultimate victory of His kingdom.

Conclusion

The mission of Jesus is an ongoing endeavor entrusted to His followers. Through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, the proclamation of the Gospel, acts of service, and a life that reflects Christ's teachings, believers are called to continue the work that Jesus began, advancing His kingdom on earth.