Matthew 28:20

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.

Matthew 28:20 (KJV)

Context

This verse concludes the Great Commission, which Jesus gives to His disciples after His resurrection. In the preceding verses, Jesus appears to the eleven disciples on a mountain in Galilee and commissions them to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Verse 20 serves as the concluding statement to this commission, emphasizing both the content of disciple-making and the promise of Christ’s presence.

Meaning

Jesus begins by saying, “Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you.” This emphasizes the authority of Jesus as the teacher and the importance of obedience to His teachings. The Greek word for “observe” carries the sense of keeping, guarding, and obeying. The command is comprehensive—“all things whatsoever”—covering all of Jesus’s instructions, including moral duties and obligations to God and to others. As disciples of Jesus, we are called to follow His commandments, which are found throughout the Gospels and the rest of the New Testament.

The second part of the verse says, “and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” This statement provides great comfort and assurance to believers. The Greek phrase for “alway” literally means “all the days,” emphasizing an unbroken, daily presence. The phrase “unto the end of the world” refers to the end of the age, indicating that this promise extends through the entire church age until Christ’s return. This promise indicates the ongoing presence of Jesus through the Holy Spirit, who dwells within believers.

The verse ends with “Amen,” affirming the truth and certainty of Jesus’s words. This promise of Christ’s presence echoes a major theme throughout the Gospel of Matthew, which begins with the announcement that Jesus is “God with us” (Matthew 1:23).

Application

As we reflect on Matthew 28:20, we can draw several practical applications. First, we are called to be disciples of Jesus, learning and following His teachings. Second, we are commissioned to make disciples of all nations, sharing the message of salvation with others. Third, we can find comfort and strength in knowing that Jesus is always with us, providing guidance, support, and comfort as we fulfill His mission. Finally, this verse challenges us to live in obedience to Christ’s commandments and rely on His presence and power as we navigate through life.

Reflection

Matthew 28:20 reminds us of our calling to be disciples of Jesus, to follow His teachings, and to make disciples of all nations. It assures us of His ongoing presence with us and encourages us to rely on Him as we live out His mission in the world. Jesus is not just a historical figure or a distant deity but an ever-present companion in our lives, guiding and empowering us to fulfill His commission.