New Testament
Matthew 28:19
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Go therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost,
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Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
What Matthew 28:19 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus commands His followers to spread His teachings to all people around the world. The instruction to 'go' emphasizes the active role believers must take in sharing their faith. The act of baptizing signifies the initiation of new believers into the Christian faith, symbolizing their commitment to God. The mention of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit highlights the importance of the Trinity in Christian belief. This verse is often referred to as the Great Commission, as it outlines the mission of the church to evangelize and make disciples of all nations. It encourages Christians to not only teach but also to guide others in their spiritual journey, fostering a community of faith that reflects the teachings of Jesus. This call to action is foundational for the growth of Christianity and emphasizes the importance of outreach and discipleship in the life of a believer.
How to apply Matthew 28:19 to your life
As believers, we are called to actively share our faith with others. This can be done through personal conversations, community service, or participating in mission trips. Engaging with diverse cultures and backgrounds helps fulfill the command to teach all nations.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary · Matthew 28:19 Meaning
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Great Commission (Matthew 28:16–20)
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Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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Plain Meaning
Jesus gives His eleven disciples a command: go and make disciples of all nations. Two things are to happen with those nations — they are to be taught, and they are to be baptized. The baptism is to be done in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, meaning under their authority and belonging to them. The scope is wide: not one people or region, but all nations.
Read It in Context
In verse 18, Jesus says all power in heaven and earth has been given to Him. The word "therefore" in verse 19 connects the command directly to that claim. Because Jesus holds all authority, He has the standing to send His disciples to every nation. Verse 20 continues the command, adding that the disciples are to teach these nations everything Jesus commanded them.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 28:19 mean?
Matthew 28:19 is a command from Jesus to His followers to spread His teachings and baptize new believers. It emphasizes the importance of sharing faith with all nations and highlights the role of the Trinity in Christian belief.
What is the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19?
The Great Commission refers to Jesus' instruction in Matthew 28:19 for His disciples to go out, teach, and baptize people from all nations. It serves as a foundational mandate for evangelism and discipleship in Christianity.
What does baptizing mean in Matthew 28:19?
In Matthew 28:19, baptizing refers to the act of initiating new believers into the Christian faith. It symbolizes their commitment to God and their acceptance of the teachings of Jesus.
Why is the Trinity mentioned in Matthew 28:19?
The mention of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in Matthew 28:19 underscores the significance of the Trinity in Christian doctrine. It reflects the belief in one God in three persons, which is central to the faith.
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