58. The Great Commission (Evangelism and Missions)

The Great Commission refers to the instructions given by Jesus Christ to His disciples, commanding them to spread His message of salvation to all nations. The core scriptural foundation of the Great Commission is found in the Gospels, and it calls Christians to engage in evangelism and missionary work. It emphasizes the authority of Christ, the need for discipleship, and the global scope of the Gospel message.

This doctrine is pivotal to Christian faith and practice, as it defines the mission of the Church and its role in the world. Different denominations interpret this calling in various ways, affecting how they approach evangelism, missions, and outreach programs.

Scriptures for the Great Commission

Matthew 28:18-20 (KJV)
“And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”
- Interpretation: Jesus commands His disciples to go into all the world, preach the Gospel, and baptize believers. The authority of Christ is central here, demonstrating that the Church’s mission is not optional but divinely ordained.
- Theological View: This passage is foundational for the Christian doctrine of evangelism, underlining the global scope and eternal purpose of missions.
Mark 16:15 (KJV)
“And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.”
- Interpretation: This succinct command reinforces the universal call to preach the Gospel, emphasizing the inclusive nature of evangelism.
- Theological View: The Church is tasked with sharing the Gospel to all people, making missions a non-negotiable part of Christian discipleship.
Luke 24:47 (KJV)
“And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.”
- Interpretation: This command not only emphasizes the message of repentance and forgiveness but also highlights that this message is for all nations, starting from the Jewish heartland.
- Theological View: This shows the Gospel’s universality, calling for global evangelism beginning with Israel but extending to all peoples.
John 20:21 (KJV)
“Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.”
- Interpretation: Jesus equates His own mission with that of His disciples, validating their role in continuing His work of spreading God’s Kingdom.
- Theological View: This reinforces the idea that believers are sent with divine authority to fulfill the Great Commission.
Acts 1:8 (KJV)
“But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”
- Interpretation: The Great Commission includes an empowerment through the Holy Spirit for global evangelism. The passage outlines a geographical expansion from local to global witness.
- Theological View: The role of the Holy Spirit is crucial in empowering believers to be effective witnesses for Christ in all parts of the world.
Romans 10:14-15 (KJV)
“How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!”
- Interpretation: This passage underscores the necessity of preaching for salvation. It highlights the importance of evangelism as the means by which people come to faith.
- Theological View: Evangelism is essential to the salvation process, and preachers are crucial in the transmission of the Gospel.
2 Corinthians 5:20 (KJV)
“Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.”
- Interpretation: Christians are portrayed as representatives of Christ, acting as His ambassadors in the world. Evangelism is not merely an act but an ongoing representation of God’s message of reconciliation.
- Theological View: Every believer has a personal responsibility to spread the message of salvation, embodying Christ’s work in the world.
Matthew 9:37-38 (KJV)
“Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.”
- Interpretation: Jesus acknowledges the great need for workers in the field of evangelism, encouraging prayer for more laborers.
- Theological View: Evangelism is an urgent task, and the Church is called to not only pray for more workers but to actively engage in spreading the Gospel.

Scriptures Against the Great Commission

While there are few direct scriptures “against” the Great Commission, some passages or views in certain traditions might stress different approaches to evangelism, such as limiting the scope or nature of missions.

Matthew 10:5-6 (KJV)
“These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not: But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”
- Interpretation: Jesus initially focused His mission on Israel, implying that the Gospel message was first for the Jews.
- Theological View: Some may interpret this as limiting the scope of evangelism during the early ministry, but it doesn’t negate the later global mission.
John 4:22 (KJV)
“Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews.”
- Interpretation: Jesus speaks about the Jewish origin of salvation, which may imply a more exclusive initial focus on Israel.
- Theological View: This verse might be viewed as restricting the scope of the Gospel initially but does not negate the later universal mission.
Acts 21:9-12 (KJV)
“And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy. And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus.”
- Interpretation: Some might argue that the Acts 21 passage shows a more local focus in early Church evangelism, as Paul is warned against going to certain areas.
- Theological View: This emphasizes caution in spreading the Gospel, especially in hostile environments, though it does not eliminate the call for worldwide evangelism.
Luke 9:51-56 (KJV)
“And it came to pass, when the time was come that he should be received up, he stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem, And sent messengers before his face: and they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him. And they did not receive him, because his face was as though he would go to Jerusalem. And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did? But he turned and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of.”
- Interpretation: The rejection by the Samaritans and Jesus’ rebuke could suggest that evangelism is not always accepted, and the focus should not always be on every rejection.
- Theological View: While evangelism is commanded, it does not imply forced conversion or an obligation to preach where there is open resistance.
Acts 8:1-4 (KJV)
“And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles. And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him. As for Saul, he made havoc of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them to prison.”
- Interpretation: The scattering of the Church due to persecution might be viewed as a restriction on the early spread of the Gospel.
- Theological View: This passage could be seen as showing that external forces may limit the outreach of the Gospel, but the mission of the Church continues despite opposition.
Matthew 13:57 (KJV)
“And they were offended in him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country and in his own house.”
- Interpretation: Jesus’ rejection in His hometown suggests that not all will accept the Gospel, and some may resist even when it is offered.
- Theological View: This may point to the challenge of evangelism, indicating that some areas or people might be particularly resistant to the Gospel.
Matthew 7:6 (KJV)
“Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.”
- Interpretation: Jesus advises discernment in evangelism, not wasting the Gospel message where it will be rejected or mocked.
- Theological View: This passage is often interpreted as encouraging wisdom in outreach, especially when it’s clear that the message will be met with hostility.
1 Peter 3:15 (KJV)
“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear.”
- Interpretation: This passage suggests a personal responsibility for witnessing but also stresses that it is in response to inquiry, not necessarily to a universal mandate.
- Theological View: Some may interpret this as limiting the proactive nature of evangelism to more reactive situations, such as when someone specifically asks about the faith.

Translation Debates

he doctrine of The Great Commission (Evangelism and Missions) involves sending believers to share the message of Christ’s salvation with the world. As with any important theological doctrine, the Great Commission is debated not only theologically, but also linguistically, with variances in translations across Hebrew, Greek, and English texts. This deep dive examines the key Hebrew and Greek terms involved in the Great Commission, explores the challenges faced by translation scholars, and highlights how different Christian traditions engage with these translations.

1. Hebrew Translation Issues:

The Great Commission is primarily discussed in the New Testament, so it is important to note that Hebrew, the language of the Old Testament, does not directly come into play for the actual “Great Commission” verses. However, the concept of missionary activity can be linked to Old Testament notions of God’s desire for His people to be a light to the nations.

The most relevant Hebrew term that might indirectly touch on the Commission is “גוי” (goy), which means “nation” or “Gentile” in contexts like Isaiah 42:6:

Isaiah 42:6 – “I the Lord have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles” (KJV).
- Interpretation: This verse prophetically hints at the mission to the Gentiles, which directly ties into the evangelistic mission in the Great Commission. The Hebrew goy here refers to the Gentiles, suggesting God’s inclusive salvation plan for all nations, which is foundational for the evangelistic work in the Great Commission.

However, Hebrew translations or references are not central in the Great Commission debate but are important in understanding God’s global intent in salvation history, as seen in the calling of Abraham and Israel to be a blessing to the nations.

2. Greek Translation Issues:

The primary New Testament texts containing the Great Commission are in Greek, and it is in this context that the doctrinal debates and translation issues are most prominent. The most quoted verses are Matthew 28:19-20, Mark 16:15, and Acts 1:8.

Key Greek Terms:

μαθητεύω (mathēteuō) – This verb means “to make disciples,” and it is the command at the heart of the Great Commission.
- Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you…” (KJV).
  - Greek Debate: The verb mathēteuō (translated as “teach” in the KJV) can be understood more accurately as “make disciples,” which includes the process of instruction but emphasizes following, commitment, and transformation. This highlights that evangelism is not simply about information transfer but about nurturing a lifelong commitment to Christ.
  - Interpretation: The use of mathēteuō clarifies that the Great Commission is a call to create disciples who actively follow Jesus, not just passive learners. This stresses the holistic nature of evangelism, including teaching, baptizing, and instructing in all Christ commanded.
ἐθνος (ethnos) – This term means “nation” or “people,” which underpins the universal scope of the Commission.
- Matthew 28:19 – “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations…” (KJV).
  - Greek Debate: The term ethnos in Greek can mean both “nation” and “Gentiles,” pointing to the universality of the mission. It emphasizes that the gospel is to be spread to all people, not just the Jewish community.
  - Interpretation: This term is vital in demonstrating that the Great Commission is meant to reach beyond ethnic boundaries, as God desires all people groups to be disciples of Jesus Christ.

Challenges with Greek Translations:

The central issue with Greek translation of the Great Commission is that English words like “go” and “teach” don’t fully capture the depth of the Greek verbs. English translations tend to simplify these words, whereas the Greek emphasizes process and commitment. For example, the Greek verb mathēteuō should be better rendered as “make disciples” rather than simply “teach,” because it conveys the full weight of the discipleship process, which includes active engagement, obedience, and transformation.

3. English Translation Issues:

The English language translations of the Great Commission—whether the KJV or more modern versions like the NIV or ESV—are impacted by the challenges of rendering Greek words into equivalent English terms. Some issues include:

“Go ye therefore”:
- In the KJV, “go ye therefore” is a somewhat outdated translation. The phrase in Greek uses a participle that more accurately translates to “as you go” or “while going.” This suggests that evangelism is not a command to go to a specific place but rather an instruction to make disciples in everyday life and as part of one’s natural rhythm.
“Teach” versus “Make Disciples”:
- As previously mentioned, the translation of mathēteuō as “teach” diminishes the broader sense of disciple-making. A more accurate translation would render it as “make disciples,” emphasizing the personal, relational aspect of bringing people into the fullness of Christ’s teachings.
“All nations”:
- This phrase in English can be misunderstood in terms of geopolitical boundaries. In the Greek, ethnos refers more broadly to people groups or ethnicities, not merely modern nation-states. The English translation here can lead to the misconception that the mission is limited to political entities, whereas the Great Commission calls for the gospel to be shared across cultural and ethnic divisions.

4. Christian Translation Issues:

Christian translations, such as the KJV, have been subject to theological biases and historical contexts. The most significant concern in Christian translations of the Great Commission relates to how the mission is framed:

Missionary Activities: Christian traditions, especially during the era of colonialism, often viewed the Great Commission as a divine mandate to convert non-Christian nations, which led to the spread of Western Christianity. This historical context shaped the language used in translating the Great Commission, focusing on the outward, often forceful, evangelistic efforts.
Universal Mission: The Great Commission’s universality can sometimes be downplayed in favor of an exclusive view of salvation. Some translations or interpretations of Matthew 28:19 might emphasize the “teaching” aspect over the “making disciples” aspect, which can unintentionally promote a more passive view of missions.

5. How Accurate Are Greek Translations?

Greek translations of the New Testament are largely considered to be accurate due to the extensive manuscript evidence supporting the Greek text. The textual criticism field, which compares manuscript variants, confirms that the Greek text of the New Testament (including the Great Commission passages) is very reliable. However, translation is always influenced by theological perspectives, and this can affect how translators approach certain terms and phrases.

For instance, the choice of translating mathēteuō as “teach” instead of “make disciples” may be influenced by a tradition focused more on education than on the holistic nature of discipleship. Additionally, differences in English versions (such as the KJV and modern translations) might reflect theological preferences about the nature of missions and evangelism.

Summary:

The linguistic issues surrounding the Great Commission in Hebrew, Greek, and English translations show how translation choices can affect the doctrinal understanding of evangelism and missions. The Greek text, particularly through terms like mathēteuō (“make disciples”) and ethnos (“nations”), underscores a mission to all people groups, while translation difficulties sometimes lead to a reduction of the comprehensive call to disciple-making into a simpler form of teaching. The challenge in translation is to accurately communicate the holistic nature of the Great Commission without losing the depth of its original meaning.

Denominational Views

1. Roman Catholic Church:

The Roman Catholic Church emphasizes that the Great Commission is a universal mandate given by Christ to His Church to preach the Gospel to all nations. They see evangelism as an intrinsic part of the Church’s mission, supported by both the authority of Christ and the Church’s magisterium (teaching authority). Evangelism is not solely individualistic but is also carried out through the sacraments, especially baptism, and the proclamation of the word.

For:

Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you…” (KJV).
- Greek Insight: The verb mathēteuō (translated as “teach” in the KJV) is more accurately rendered as “make disciples.” This reflects the Roman Catholic view that the mission of evangelism is not just about teaching, but forming disciples who commit to following Christ through the sacraments and Church authority.

Against:

John 14:6 – “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” (KJV).
- Theological Debate: Some critiques of the Catholic interpretation argue that the church’s hierarchy, sacraments, and practices sometimes obscure the personal relationship with Christ that the Great Commission emphasizes. The debate centers around whether institutional participation is essential or secondary to a personal relationship with Christ.

2. Eastern Orthodox Church:

The Eastern Orthodox Church holds that the Great Commission, as part of Christ’s command, was given to the apostles and continues through the Church. Evangelism is seen as an essential activity, but it is also tightly interwoven with liturgical worship and the sacraments. The Orthodox Church emphasizes the apostolic succession and the role of the Church in fulfilling the Great Commission.

For:

Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost…” (KJV).
- Greek Insight: The phrase mathēteuō here refers to a process of creating disciples through both proclamation and participation in the life of the Church. For the Orthodox, this reflects both the need for personal discipleship and the liturgical life that aids in spiritual growth.

Against:

Matthew 7:21 – “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” (KJV).
- Theological Debate: The Orthodox understanding of evangelism can be critiqued for placing a strong emphasis on ritualistic practices (like baptism) and Church participation, sometimes overshadowing the necessity of individual personal conversion and direct following of Christ’s commands.

3. Evangelical Church:

Evangelicals interpret the Great Commission as the central mandate of the Church’s existence. They stress personal conversion, evangelism, and the active preaching of the gospel to the world. Evangelicals place a strong emphasis on the authority of Scripture and often advocate for a personal relationship with Christ through faith, repentance, and baptism.

For:

Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost…” (KJV).
- Greek Insight: The term mathēteuō strongly emphasizes discipleship, which Evangelicals see as personal and transformative. It underlines the importance of making disciples who are not merely taught but follow Christ through their faith.

Against:

John 3:5 – “Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” (KJV).
- Theological Debate: Some critics argue that the Evangelical emphasis on individualistic conversion can overlook the broader communal and sacramental aspects of salvation and evangelism found in other traditions.

4. Protestant (General):

Protestant views on the Great Commission generally align with the Evangelical perspective, focusing on personal salvation, the authority of Scripture, and the call to evangelize the world. Many Protestant denominations emphasize the primacy of Scripture, preaching, and personal witness, while some also acknowledge the role of the Church in mission work.

For:

Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost…” (KJV).
- Greek Insight: The word ethnos (nations) in the Greek emphasizes the universal scope of evangelism, aligning with the Protestant belief that the Gospel is for all people, not limited to one nation or group.

Against:

1 Corinthians 1:17 – “For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel…” (KJV).
- Theological Debate: This can be seen as a critique against an overemphasis on formal rituals and sacraments in evangelism. Protestants argue that the core of the Great Commission is preaching the gospel, and conversion through faith is paramount, not just ritualistic acts.

5. Baptist (Southern Baptist, Independent Baptist, etc.):

Baptists hold the Great Commission as central to their evangelical mission. They emphasize the need for personal faith in Christ, believer’s baptism by immersion, and the necessity of evangelistic outreach. Baptists stress the authority of Scripture, autonomy of the local church, and the Great Commission as a mandate for individual believers.

For:

Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost…” (KJV).
- Greek Insight: mathēteuō is understood by Baptists to emphasize personal disciple-making. The act of baptism is also central to Baptist theology, as it reflects a believer’s personal decision to follow Christ, marking an outward expression of inward faith.

Against:

Romans 10:9 – “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” (KJV).
- Theological Debate: Some argue that the Baptist emphasis on baptism as a necessary step for salvation may overstate its importance, given that salvation is portrayed as a matter of heart belief and confession in Romans 10:9.

6. Methodist (United Methodist, AME, etc.):

Methodists interpret the Great Commission in the context of both individual salvation and social transformation. The mission includes not only evangelism but also works of mercy and justice. Methodism emphasizes the role of the Church in spreading the gospel and advocating for social change through love and service.

For:

Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost…” (KJV).
- Greek Insight: The Greek mathēteuō suggests a holistic process of forming disciples, which aligns with the Methodist view that evangelism must include both the proclamation of the gospel and the transformation of society through acts of compassion and justice.

Against:

James 2:17 – “Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.” (KJV).
- Theological Debate: Some critics argue that the Methodist focus on works of mercy may, at times, overshadow the essential message of salvation through faith alone, as emphasized in the New Testament.

7. Lutheran (Missouri Synod, ELCA, etc.):

Lutherans understand the Great Commission as part of the mandate given to the Church to preach the Gospel and administer the sacraments. Evangelism is central, but it is carried out through the means of grace, such as baptism, communion, and the preaching of the Word. Lutherans emphasize that salvation comes through God’s grace alone, not by human effort.

For:

Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost…” (KJV).
- Greek Insight: mathēteuō in Lutheran thought reflects the Church’s role in nurturing and forming disciples through the means of grace. The act of baptism is central, and the gospel must be preached to all nations to bring people into God’s grace.

Against:

1 Corinthians 1:17 – “For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel…” (KJV).
- Theological Debate: Some Lutheran critics argue that an overemphasis on baptism as a requirement for salvation could detract from the sufficiency of the gospel preached by faith alone.

8. Pentecostal (Assemblies of God, UPCI, etc.):

Pentecostals place great emphasis on the role of the Holy Spirit in evangelism and missions. They believe that the Great Commission is fulfilled not only through preaching the gospel but also through the demonstration of the Holy Spirit’s power in signs, wonders, and miracles. Pentecostals view evangelism as a dynamic, Spirit-led activity.

For:

Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost…” (KJV).
- Greek Insight: The use of mathēteuō resonates with Pentecostal doctrine, which views discipleship as an active, Spirit-empowered process. Pentecostals believe in the baptism of the Holy Spirit as essential to the Christian life, and this empowerment is seen as integral to fulfilling the Great Commission.

Against:

Acts 1:8 – “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you…” (KJV).
- Theological Debate: Some argue that Pentecostal emphasis on miraculous signs and wonders may distract from the simplicity of the gospel message, which is to be shared with clarity and understanding.

9. Jehovah’s Witnesses:

Jehovah’s Witnesses see the Great Commission as a literal command to spread the message of God’s Kingdom, particularly the announcement of God’s Kingdom rule through Christ. They believe that they are the only true witnesses of Christ’s Kingdom and that evangelism is a central mission of the true Christian Church.

For:

Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations…” (KJV).
- Greek Insight: The use of mathēteuō is central to Jehovah’s Witnesses’ understanding of the Great Commission. They believe in the importance of making disciples and teaching the truth of God’s Kingdom, specifically through literature and personal witness.

Against:

John 14:6 – “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life…” (KJV).
- Theological Debate: Critics argue that Jehovah’s Witnesses’ restrictive view of who constitutes the true Church and their distinct interpretation of Christ’s divinity diverges from mainstream Christian interpretations of salvation.

10. Mormonism (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – LDS):

Mormons view the Great Commission as part of their broader mission to restore the original Church of Jesus Christ. They emphasize missionary work to spread the restored gospel, which includes unique teachings such as the Book of Mormon and the importance of eternal families.

For:

Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations…” (KJV).
- Greek Insight: The emphasis on mathēteuō reflects the Mormon focus on bringing people into full membership of the restored Church through baptism, teachings of the gospel, and temple work.

Against:

John 14:6 – “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life…” (KJV).
- Theological Debate: Critics argue that Mormon interpretations of the Great Commission and their theology of restoration distort the traditional Christian understanding of Christ’s exclusive role as Savior.

11. Seventh-day Adventist:

Seventh-day Adventists see the Great Commission as a call to spread the gospel, emphasizing the second coming of Christ and the observance of the Sabbath as part of the faithful response to Christ’s teachings. They see the mission as both evangelical and prophetic.

For:

Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations…” (KJV).
- Greek Insight: mathēteuō emphasizes the need to create true disciples. For Adventists, this includes the preaching of the everlasting gospel, which calls for a focus on the second coming of Christ and observance of the Sabbath as part of the call to holiness.

Against:

Revelation 14:7 – “Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come…” (KJV).
- Theological Debate: Some critics argue that Adventists overly emphasize apocalyptic elements of the Great Commission and that a stronger focus on the gospel message of grace and salvation through faith alone should be more central.

Conclusion

The doctrine of the Great Commission emphasizes the call for all Christians to evangelize and spread the message of salvation through Jesus Christ. Across various denominations, the interpretation and application of the Great Commission varies, reflecting theological differences in how evangelism is approached, whether it involves international missionary work, local outreach, or both. Despite these differences, the overarching belief in the necessity of spreading the Gospel remains a central tenet for all Christian denominations. The Great Commission serves as a reminder of the importance of evangelism, guiding believers to fulfill Christ’s final command to His disciples.

Table 1: Denominational Views on the Great Commissiontional Views on the Second Coming of Christ

Denomination	View	Interpretation	Scripture Basis	Reference & KJV Quote
Roman Catholic	Evangelism is integral to the Church’s mission to spread salvation.	The Church must lead people to Christ through sacraments and evangelism.	Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15-16	“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations…” (Matthew 28:19 KJV)
Eastern Orthodox	Evangelism is important but must be conducted through the Church.	Emphasis on preserving the ancient traditions while evangelizing.	Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 1:8	“But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you…” (Acts 1:8 KJV)
Evangelical	A strong emphasis on personal evangelism and mission work worldwide.	Evangelism should be proactive, with individuals taking the Gospel to all nations.	Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15; Acts 1:8	“Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15 KJV)
Baptist	The Great Commission emphasizes local and global evangelism, especially through baptisms.	Evangelism includes both preaching and baptizing.	Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 1:8	“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them…” (Matthew 28:19 KJV)
Methodist	Evangelism is essential, focusing on both social justice and the Gospel.	The Great Commission includes both word and deed to bring people to Christ.	Matthew 28:19-20; Luke 10:2	“The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few…” (Luke 10:2 KJV)
Lutheran	Emphasis on preaching and baptism as part of the Great Commission.	Evangelism is carried out by the Church, particularly through the Word and Sacraments.	Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15	“Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15 KJV)
Pentecostal	Emphasizes global evangelism through personal testimony and power of the Holy Spirit.	Evangelism includes signs and wonders as part of witnessing.	Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 1:8	“But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you…” (Acts 1:8 KJV)
Seventh-day Adventist	Evangelism is integral to the preparation for Christ’s second coming.	Focus on spreading the Gospel and teaching obedience to God’s commandments.	Matthew 28:19-20; Revelation 14:6-7	“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations…” (Matthew 28:19 KJV)
Jehovah’s Witnesses	Evangelism is a central duty, focused on reaching as many people as possible.	Emphasize preaching the Kingdom of God and salvation through Jehovah’s organization.	Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 1:8	“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations…” (Matthew 28:19 KJV)
Mormonism (LDS)	Evangelism is critical, with a focus on missionary work.	Missionary work is an essential duty for members of the LDS Church.	Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15	“Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15 KJV)

Table 2: Denominational Arguments Against the Interpretation of the Great Commission

Denomination	Argument Against Interpretation	Scripture Basis	Reference & KJV Quote
Roman Catholic	Some believe that evangelism should be conducted more locally through the Church.	Matthew 28:18-20; 1 Corinthians 1:17	“For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel…” (1 Corinthians 1:17 KJV)
Eastern Orthodox	Overemphasis on evangelism may lead to neglect of traditional practices.	Luke 10:2; Matthew 10:5-6	“Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” (Matthew 10:6 KJV)
Evangelical	Critics argue that focusing too much on evangelism could lead to neglecting spiritual growth.	1 Corinthians 3:6-7; Colossians 1:28	“I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.” (1 Corinthians 3:6 KJV)
Baptist	Some argue that an overemphasis on evangelism can lead to shallow conversions.	Matthew 7:21-23; 2 Corinthians 5:20	“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 7:21 KJV)
Methodist	Evangelism should not overshadow social justice and community work.	James 1:27; Matthew 25:34-40	“Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” (Matthew 25:40 KJV)
Lutheran	Emphasizing evangelism too much could overshadow the importance of doctrine.	Ephesians 4:11-13; 1 Corinthians 2:2	“For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.” (1 Corinthians 2:2 KJV)
Pentecostal	Some critics say Pentecostal evangelism is too focused on signs and wonders.	1 Corinthians 13:1-3; Luke 16:31	“But if they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.” (Luke 16:31 KJV)
Seventh-day Adventist	Some critics believe the Adventist focus on commandments can overshadow the Gospel.	Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 10:9-10	“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.” (Ephesians 2:8 KJV)
Jehovah’s Witnesses	Evangelism may become overly focused on numbers rather than the heart of the message.	1 Corinthians 13:1-3; Galatians 5:6	“For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.” (Galatians 5:6 KJV)
Mormonism (LDS)	Some argue that an exclusive focus on missionary work may overlook the need for personal holiness.	Matthew 7:21-23; Luke 6:46	“And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” (Luke 6:46 KJV)

Summary:

The Great Commission is universally accepted across denominations as the call to spread the Gospel and make disciples of all nations. However, the approach to evangelism and missionary work varies significantly among denominations. Roman Catholics, Eastern Orthodox, and Evangelicals emphasize a theological and ecclesiastical approach, with the latter focusing on personal salvation and proactive outreach. Denominations like Baptists and Pentecostals emphasize active preaching and baptizing, often with a focus on personal faith and revival, while groups like Jehovah’s Witnesses and Mormons integrate evangelism with their unique doctrines and organizational structures.

Despite the differences, all these groups recognize the fundamental command of Christ to evangelize, though they differ on the scope, methods, and the central role of evangelism in their faith. Some denominations argue that evangelism should not overshadow other aspects of the Christian life, such as spiritual growth, social justice, or doctrinal purity. Ultimately, the Great Commission calls Christians to bring the message of salvation to the world, a duty that remains central to Christian life across all traditions.