What is the Great Commission?

The Great Commission is the risen Jesus’ command that His apostles make disciples of all nations. They must baptize, teach everything He commanded, and continue His mission until the end of the age.

Where it appears. At the end of Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus declares, “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (Mt 28:18). He then commands the apostles: “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 that I have commanded you” (Mt 28:19-20). He closes with a promise: “I am with you always, until the end of the age” (Mt 28:20).

What the command includes. The Great Commission has several connected parts. Christians are to proclaim Jesus Christ, invite people to faith and repentance, baptize them, and teach them to live according to everything Christ revealed. Evangelization therefore involves more than sharing an inspiring message. Jesus commands the formation of disciples within the sacramental and teaching life of His Church. Baptism in the one name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit also expresses the revealed mystery of the Trinity (CCC 232-233).

Who carries it out. Christ first entrusted this mission to the apostles. Through apostolic succession, their teaching and pastoral office continue in the bishops, united with the successor of Peter (CCC 857-862). The whole Church shares in the mission. Clergy, religious, parents, catechists, missionaries, and ordinary lay Catholics all have roles. Laypeople evangelize especially through faithful lives, honest work, family life, charitable service, and a readiness to explain their hope in Christ (1 Pet 3:15; CCC 905).

How Christians must evangelize. The Church proposes the Gospel because every person needs Christ, who is “the way and the truth and the life” (Jn 14:6). Faith cannot be forced. Evangelization must respect human freedom, reject coercion, and bear witness through charity and holiness (CCC 851, 856). Christians rely upon the Holy Spirit, who gives power to bear witness “to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8).

Begin close to home. Pray for one person who does not know Christ, live the faith openly, and be prepared to speak about Jesus with clarity, patience, and love.