Study 

Jesus’ final instruction and command in the Gospel of Matthew is “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, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age“ (Matthew 28:19-20). Disciples are formed through familiarity with Scripture. Christians grow in faith through daily immersion in the Word of God and through participation in small groups, mentor teams, classes and retreats.

Traditionally, efforts at education in the church have been directed at children. And, indeed, the instruction of children is an important responsibility (Ephesians 6:4), but the call to be students of the word is a lifelong challenge (Colossians 3:16). Through our study of the Word, which was written for our “instruction“ (Romans 15:4), we “grow in grace and knowledge“ (2 Peter 3:18). We attend to hearing the words of Jesus and the Word about the life, death and resurrection of Jesus because as we learn of him, our faith is strengthened, and we are equipped to lead the life of the disciple (Matthew 11:29-30).

These texts and others make it clear that we are never done learning the Word so that we can be strengthened and filled with the Good News that we have to share. In addition, new believers cannot grow in the faith unless they are exposed to the Word. Through encounters with the Word, believers become disciples. Through teaching and learning the Word, congregations carry out the command to “make disciples.“

Adapted from “Toward a Vision for Evangelism,” by Marta Poling-Goldenne and Ted Schroeder

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