As an introduction to this edition of the Proclaimer, in which we share wonderful news, stories, and examples of reaching our neighbors and the nations, let’s take note of Christ’s Great Commission to His churches. Tim Beougher, in his excellent textbook (Invitation to Evangelism), examines the five different “Great Commission” passages and offers the following keywords as descriptions:1
Matthew 28:18–20 — The Authority. We should keep in mind verse 18 when we are quoting the Great Commission from Matthew’s Gospel. “And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (Matthew 28:18). When we face pressures, if we feel fearful, or if we experience opposition, let’s remember that we reach out to our neighbors and the nations in the name of Jesus and His authority.
Mark 16:15 — The Objective. Christ’s followers are commanded to proclaim the Gospel to all creation. This mandate reminds us to exclude no one and no place. The SBCV is blessed to come alongside local churches as you share Christ with various generations, various people groups, and in various counties, cities, and countries. One of the local strategies we utilize is Bless Every Home, with the goal of seeing SBCV churches bless and pray for every home within their mission field. We can also provide your church with information about your local mission field through our Mapping Center resource. Contact your SBCV regional catalyst for more information.
Luke 24:45–49 — The Message. The Scripture tells us, “Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures and said to them, ‘Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.’”
John 20:21 — The Method. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so, I am sending you” (John 20:21). You are not alone as you go and send! SBCV will come alongside your local church as churches plant churches, churches revitalize, missionaries are sent, and communities are reached with the Good News of Jesus Christ. In this edition of the Proclaimer, you will see just a few of the ways God is moving among His local churches for global impact!
Acts 1:8 — The Power. We know and must never forget that we do not serve in our strength or power. Jesus promised, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8). In the next few months, join with us as we seek God in prayer and share the Good News of Jesus. We have a number of special events this spring that we pray will encourage and equip you as ambassadors of Christ.
Keep Pressing On!
Your brother in Christ,
Brian Autry
1Tim Beougher’s Invitation to Evangelism is the source for the “five keywords” used in this article. His textbook is an excellent introduction and foundational text for the study of evangelism.