The Power of Intentional Relationships
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Share on X
Matthew 28:19
This verse, known as the Great Commission, serves as a rallying cry for believers to spread the gospel and guide others into a life-transforming relationship with Jesus. Yet at its heart, making disciples isn’t just about preaching—it’s about connection, relationship, and walking alongside others in their journey of faith.
For further insight on this scripture, listen to this verses Spiritual Kick Off episode here.
Go and Make Disciples: The Power of Intentional Relationships
Matthew 28:19 says, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” This verse, known as the Great Commission, serves as a rallying cry for believers to spread the gospel and guide others into a life-transforming relationship with Jesus. Yet at its heart, making disciples isn’t just about preaching—it’s about connection, relationship, and walking alongside others in their journey of faith.
The Foundation of Discipleship: Relationship
Jesus didn’t simply preach sermons and move on. He invested deeply in a small group of followers, living life with them, eating with them, and meeting them in their struggles. Through intentional time together, Jesus demonstrated that discipleship begins with relationship. True connection is the bridge that allows for meaningful teaching, growth, and transformation.
For us, the same principle holds true. To make disciples, we must be willing to engage in the lives of others. That means taking the time to build trust, understand their struggles, and walk with them through the ups and downs. Whether it’s a co-worker battling addiction, a friend grappling with doubts, or a family member longing for purpose, intentional relationships are where discipleship begins.
Breaking Barriers to Build Connection
In today’s culture, barriers like shame, isolation, and busyness often keep people from forming the relationships needed for true discipleship. Addressing these barriers is a critical step for anyone seeking to fulfill the Great Commission. Jesus showed us how:
- He met people where they were. Whether it was Zacchaeus in a tree or a woman at the well, Jesus went to people’s spaces and engaged them on their level.
- He led with grace and truth. Jesus extended love while also challenging sin, creating an environment of safety and accountability.
- He lived out authenticity. Jesus’s life reflected the truth He preached, inspiring trust and imitation in His disciples.
We are called to emulate Christ’s approach by extending grace, leading with vulnerability, and creating a space where others feel safe to share their struggles and doubts.
Discipleship Is More Than Teaching
The Great Commission is not a call to deliver a one-time message. It’s an invitation to guide others into a lifelong relationship with Jesus. That kind of journey takes patience and intentionality. Discipleship includes:
- Modeling Faith: Letting others see Christ through your actions and choices.
- Providing Accountability: Helping others stay rooted in God’s Word and committed to spiritual growth.
- Offering Encouragement: Lifting others up when they feel defeated, reminding them of God’s promises.
Discipleship Begins with Us
Before we can effectively make disciples, we must examine our own lives. Are we investing in relationships? Are we prioritizing time to walk alongside others? Are we modeling the intentionality Jesus demonstrated?
When we build connections grounded in love and faith, we create the fertile ground where discipleship can thrive. Jesus’s command to “go and make disciples” begins not with grand gestures but with simple acts of intentional relationship.
A Call to Action
Who in your life needs a connection? Who might God be calling you to disciple? Start small. Reach out to a friend, a neighbor, or a colleague. Begin by listening, building trust, and walking with them in their journey. As you do, remember Jesus’s promise: “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20).
Discipleship is not a solo endeavor; it’s the work of Christ through us. Let’s follow His example and take the time to connect, so that we can go and make disciples as He commanded.