Christ’s great commission for His disciples is found in the New Testament of the Bible, specifically in the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 28, verses 18-20 (ESV):
“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 that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.‘”
This commission is often referred to as the “Great Commission.” In it, Jesus instructs His disciples to go out into the world, spreading the message of His teachings, baptizing new believers, and making disciples of all nations. The commission emphasizes the universal scope of the disciples’ mission and the importance of passing on Christ’s teachings to others. Additionally, Jesus assures His disciples of His presence and guidance throughout this mission, promising to be with them always, even until the end of the age. It serves as a foundational mandate for Christian evangelism and outreach efforts.
So how can one be saved?
Salvation by grace is a fundamental concept in Christian theology that underscores the central belief that individuals can be saved from their sins and reconciled with God solely through God’s unmerited favor and divine love.
Human Sinfulness: According to Christian teaching, all humans are inherently sinful and separated from God due to their disobedience and sinful nature. This separation is often referred to as spiritual death or estrangement from God.
God’s Grace: Grace is often defined as God’s unmerited favor and love extended to humanity despite its unworthiness. It is an expression of God’s mercy and compassion. Christians believe that God’s grace is freely given and cannot be earned or deserved through human efforts or good deeds.
Atonement through Jesus Christ: Central to the concept of salvation by grace is the belief in Jesus Christ as the means of reconciliation between humanity and God. Christians believe that Jesus, through His death and resurrection, provided a way for humanity to be redeemed and forgiven of their sins. This is often referred to as the atonement or the redemptive work of Christ.
Faith: While salvation is by God’s grace alone, faith is an essential component. Christians believe that individuals are justified (declared righteous before God) by faith in Jesus Christ. This faith involves trusting in Jesus as the Savior and accepting His sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins.
Repentance and Transformation: Alongside faith, repentance is often emphasized. Repentance involves a sincere change of heart and turning away from a life of sin. Christians believe that genuine faith and repentance lead to a transformed life characterized by a desire to live in accordance with God’s will.
Justification and Adoption: Through God’s grace, faith, and repentance, believers are justified before God, meaning they are declared righteous in His sight. They are also seen as adopted into God’s family and become children of God.
Sanctification: Following justification, the process of sanctification begins, whereby believers seek to grow in their faith and become more Christlike in their character and conduct. This is an ongoing journey of spiritual growth and maturity.
Salvation by grace is a foundational doctrine in Christianity, emphasizing that salvation is a gift from God, not something earned through human merit or works. It underscores the idea that God’s love and forgiveness are available to all who place their faith in Jesus Christ, regardless of their past sins or shortcomings. This concept is central to the Christian understanding of God’s redemptive plan for humanity.