Go Tell It: Living the Call of the Great Commission

As Christmas approaches, I’ve been reflecting on the powerful hymn Go Tell It on the Mountain. Its joyful proclamation reminds us of the shepherds who first heard the news of Jesus’ birth and couldn’t wait to share it. But this song also challenges us to live out the Great Commission Jesus gave in Matthew 28:18–20—to proclaim the Gospel to the world.

This week, I’d like to unpack the call to “go and tell” and share some personal stories that remind me why this mission matters so deeply.

1. Claim the Commission: Commit to Christ’s Cause

Jesus’ command isn’t just for pastors or missionaries—it’s for every believer. But let me tell you, there was a time in my life when I didn’t think this applied to me.

I remember the day everything changed. It was during a prison Bible study. I had hit rock bottom, but God met me there in the most unexpected way. A fellow inmate, a man who had every reason to stay silent, boldly shared his testimony with me. It wasn’t polished or rehearsed—it was raw and real. His willingness to “go and tell” sparked something in my heart.

That moment reminded me that no matter our circumstances, we’re all called to share the hope we’ve found in Christ. When Jesus said, “Go,” He meant it for people like you and me—flawed but redeemed.

Challenge: Where is God calling you to step out and claim the mission He’s entrusted to you?


2. Faithful Feet: Fearlessly Forward

Go and make disciples of all nations… Matthew 28:19

Stepping out in faith isn’t easy. I’ll never forget the first time I shared my testimony publicly. My heart was pounding, and I was sure I’d mess it up. But as I spoke about how Jesus transformed my life, I saw tears in the eyes of someone in the crowd.

Afterward, that person came up to me and said, “I’ve been where you were, and I didn’t think there was a way out. But now, I see hope.”

That experience taught me that sharing the Gospel isn’t about having all the right words; it’s about being willing to step out and let God use your story. Just like the shepherds who ran to tell everyone they met about Jesus, we’re called to go without hesitation.

Challenge: This week, ask God to show you one person who needs to hear the Good News. Be bold and share your story with them.


3. Disciple, Develop, and Deploy

…teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. Matthew 28:20

Discipleship is about walking alongside others in their faith journey, just as others have done for me. One of the most meaningful relationships I’ve had began with a simple coffee meeting. A young man from our church reached out, saying he wanted to grow in his faith but didn’t know where to start.

Over the months that followed, we met regularly to study Scripture, pray, and talk about life. I watched as his confidence in Christ grew, and now, he’s discipling others in our church! That’s the beauty of discipleship—it multiplies.

Just like Jesus invested in His disciples, we’re called to invest in others. It’s not about having all the answers; it’s about being present and willing to guide someone else.

Challenge: Who in your life can you invest in spiritually? Commit to walking with them in their faith journey.


4. Presence-Powered: Proceed with Peace

And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. Matthew 28:20

There was a time I felt utterly unqualified to share the Gospel. I had just started a new ministry role, and doubts kept creeping in. One day, as I was praying, God brought Isaiah 41:10 to mind:

Do not fear, for I am with you.

That reminder of His presence gave me the courage to move forward. Shortly after, I found myself leading a Bible study with a group of people I barely knew. But as I spoke, I felt God’s peace wash over me, and the words flowed. It wasn’t me—it was Him working through me.

The same promise Jesus gave His disciples is true for us today: He is with us, always. When we lean on His presence, we can move forward with confidence, no matter what challenges we face.

Challenge: Reflect on a time when you’ve felt God’s presence in a powerful way. Let that memory strengthen your faith as you step out in obedience.


Conclusion: Living the Call to Go and Tell

The hymn Go Tell It on the Mountain and the Great Commission remind us that the Gospel isn’t meant to be kept to ourselves. It’s a message of hope, joy, and transformation that the world desperately needs.

This Christmas season, let’s commit to living the call to “go and tell”:

1. Claim the Commission: Make Christ’s mission your own.

2. Faithful Feet: Step out boldly to share the Gospel.

3. Disciple, Develop, and Deploy: Walk alongside others in their faith.

4. Presence-Powered: Trust in Jesus’ promise to be with you always.

Let’s carry this message with us “over the hills and everywhere,” proclaiming that Jesus Christ is born and alive in our lives today.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for the gift of Jesus and the mission You’ve given us. Help us to boldly proclaim Your Good News, disciple others, and trust in Your presence every step of the way. Use us to share Your love and bring hope to the world. Amen.

Let’s go and tell! Who can you share the Good News with this week? I’d love to hear your stories—share them in the comments or send me a message. Let’s encourage each other as we live out the call to “go and tell”!

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