Lesson
7
The
Great Commission
VI. The Great
Commission
The Great Commission
is recorded in each of the three synoptic gospels. Luke 24:45-47; Matthew
28:19-20 and Mark 16:15-18. The disciples were to preach repentance and remission
of sins in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem (Luke 24:47). The
gospel was to be preached to everyone regardless of his nationality or race.
(Mark 16:15).
A. The elements of
the Great Commission are as follows:
* Belief
* Repentance
* Water Baptism.
* Supernatural signs,
including speaking with new tongues. (Receiving the Baptism of the Holy Ghost.)
* Teaching
* Healing
B.
Jesus' Ascension
Jesus led
the disciples to a place on the Mount of Olives near Bethany. Jesus told them
to wait in Jerusalem for the promise of the Father and they would be baptized
with the Holy Ghost in not many days. He then lifted up his hands and blessed
them and was carried up into heaven in a cloud. As the disciples looked skyward
two men stood by them in white apparel and asked them why they stood there
gazing up into heaven. The two men told the disciples that the same Jesus which
was taken from them up into heaven would return in like manner. The disciples
left the Mount of Olives and returned to Jerusalem, their hearts filled with
joy and eager expectation.