Jesus' profound statement to "make disciples of all nations" in Matthew 28:19-20 should resonate with all of us as Seventh-day Adventists.  I want to look at this imperative and why we are Commissioned for Mission.  Finally, I want us to consider the transformative power of disciple-making and the global scope of this calling.

1. The Great Commission: Jesus' command to make disciples of all nations, often called the Great Commission, is a pivotal directive for Seventh-day Adventists. It serves as a rallying cry to actively engage in God's mission, cooperating with Him to reconcile humanity to Himself. To fulfill this mandate, you and I are called to be disciples to share the gospel message and to make disciples who will become followers of Jesus Christ.

2. Spreading the Life-Changing Gospel: The heart of the Great Commission lies in sharing the life-changing power of the gospel. Through this imperative, we are responsible for communicating the good news of salvation and the transformative love of Jesus Christ. By proclaiming His message, we allow others to encounter forgiveness, healing, and restoration found in a relationship with Him.

3. Experiencing the Joy of Transformation: As Seventh-day Adventists, we are “Commissioned for Mission” because of disciple-making's profound impact. Making disciples allows us to witness the life-transforming work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of others. As we participate in the process of guiding individuals towards Christlikeness, we experience the joy of seeing people grow in their faith, develop spiritual maturity, and impact others in turn.

4. Encountering God's Heart for All Nations: The imperative to make disciples of all nations reflects God's heart for humanity. We are called to embrace a global perspective, recognizing that God desires to reach people from every culture, nation, and background. Through cross-cultural missions, believers actively participate in God's redemptive plan to reconcile people of all nations to Himself.

5. Leaving a Legacy of God's Kingdom: Those “Commissioned for Mission” extend themselves beyond personal salvation. It encompasses the larger vision of building God's Kingdom on earth. As we make disciples, through the leading and power of the Holy Spirit, we contribute to the growth and expansion of the Kingdom, leaving a legacy of transformed lives and communities. This legacy extends through generations, impacting individuals, families, societies, and cultures.

The imperative of making disciples of all nations is a powerful call to action that resonates with us as Seventh-day Adventists. By embracing this “Commissioned for Mission”, theme we as Seventh-day Adventists have the privilege of participating in God's redemptive work, spreading the life-changing gospel, and leaving a legacy of transformed lives and communities.

-Pastor Leonardo Rahming, South Bahamas Conference Executive Secretary