manna?

The Great Commission

Posted by boyd berends

On Sunday, March 13, one of the things that our teacher/preacher for the day touched on was that of the Great Commission, found in the 16th. chapter of the book of Mark.

I think that most of us have heard, probably often as a matter of fact, the words, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature”

Now what do these words mean to the average Christian, or to the average church attendee? I am afraid that all to often we assume that the Great Commission means that we should go forth and tell what is in the Word to those who have never heard. But if one were to read further in the passage we would find more detailed instructions on what Jesus was referring to. Please let me explain.

Verse 16 states that, “he who believes and is baptized will be saved—”: Okay, there should be no question as to whom the reference is made. Then in verse 17 we read, “And these signs will follow those who believe: In MY name (the name of Jesus) they will cast out demons: (isn’t it interesting that when talking about casting out demons Jesus was talking to believers) they will take up serpents; (just like Paul did on the island) and if they drink anything deadly it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover”.

When we speak of the Great Commission, why do we not take all of what Jesus said? Do you suppose it is because it is far easier to talk, then it is to act and to believe?

I have been struck with the passage in the Bible when it tells of Abraham hearing from God regarding how he (Abraham) was told to sacrifice his son, Isaac, the son of God’s promises, and because by faith he was willing to do so, it was counted by God unto him (Abraham) as righteousness. (What Jesus (God) has said in His Word we should believe.)

If in the Great Commission Jesus tells us what to do, and what should signs should follow, and we do not believe or see this happening, what is then accounted unto us?

Of course this begs the questions: Are these signs Biblical, and are they for today?

Jesus stated the He came to destroy the works of the devil. Then is it also a fair statement to say that He (Jesus) does not lie, so if He came to do it, then that is exactly what was done.

So, if Jesus destroyed the works of the devil, then we should ask the question, “what are the works of the devil?” What do you think of when asked what the works of the devil are?

Jesus also stated that the things He had done, we would also do, and yes, even greater things. Well what things did Jesus do? Well He preached and taught, and so should we. But did not He also heal, (body, soul and mind)cast out demons, etc?

Did these signs and wonders cease when Jesus left? If they ceased (which from reading the Word, we know did not happen) then a question should be asked. WHY DON’T WE IN THE CHURCH HERE IS AMERICA SEE MORE OF WHAT JESUS PROMISED?

One could easily ask why I make such an issue about signs and wonders. Well it is simply because I have so often been in physical or emotional place where I personally needed what Jesus has said was ours.

Once again I find myself in another of these physical situations and I long for the community (that is what we call the church body, isn’t it) to join their faith with my faith to make a difference.

But if the church does not teach, preach or believe all of Jesus’ Words, then can the church really help when parts of the body really need help?

Quite a thought provoking question isn’t it?