As the women were on their way, some of the guards went into the city and told the leading priests what had happened. A meeting with the elders was called, and they decided to give the soldiers a large bribe. They told the soldiers, “You must say, ‘Jesus’ disciples came during the night while we were sleeping, and they stole his body.’ If the governor hears about it, we’ll stand up for you so you won’t get in trouble.” So the guards accepted the bribe and said what they were told to say. Their story spread widely among the Jews, and they still tell it today. Then the eleven disciples left for Galilee, going to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him—but some of them doubted! Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
Matthew 28:11-20 NLT
The last two stories in the Gospel contrast each other and challenge each one of us. In the first story, the powers of the world worked to preserve their positions. The resurrection changes everything—thus, the powerful work to deny, ignore, andcover it up. The guards—who clearly knew the truth—took a bribe to perpetuate a lie. Some people chose to be trapped in their positions, power, and illusions.
In the second story Jesus Christ told His followers that He has ALL authority and power; He is the world's true Lord. He will always be with them, which gives them power and authority. They are to use this power not for prestige or position, but to tell the world that Jesus is Lord, to bring the world into a right relationship with Him, and join in on the mission of God in this world. This is called the Great Commission; it is not a suggestion. He is with us ALWAYS; there is nothing that can separate us from His love. Jesus is Lord; every follower of Jesus is commissioned to proclaim His victory and authority to every person and every nation. He is the King, and we are to make disciples who will be baptized and follow His teaching. He is alive! Join Him on His mission and tell the world!
What is holding you back from living out the Great Commission of Jesus? Jesus is with you! How can you use your power and position to share His truth with the world?
