What in the World is the Church Suppose to Be Doing

The sermon references the Great Commission given by Jesus to His disciples after His resurrection. This commission, recorded in Matthew 28:19-20, instructs believers to 'go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.' This pivotal biblical passage serves as the foundational mandate for the Church's evangelistic and discipling mission throughout history. The sermon's emphasis on 'all nations' and the ongoing presence of Christ ('Lo, I am with you always') points to the timeless and universal applicability of this command.

This sermon is critical for understanding the foundational purpose and methods of the Church. In a contemporary context where churches can easily become sidetracked by secondary activities or cultural trends, Dr. Lewis re-centers the listener on the core biblical mandate. The distinction between 'feelings' and 'will' in obedience addresses a common challenge in modern spirituality, where emotional experience can overshadow resolute commitment. Furthermore, the warning against 'colonizing' instead of 'evangelizing' is profoundly relevant in a globalized world, calling for an inclusive and genuine approach to sharing the Gospel that avoids cultural imposition.

• Church leaders must constantly re-evaluate programs and initiatives to ensure they directly support the mission of making disciples, safeguarding against 'getting sidetracked from our purpose.'
• It is imperative for leadership to model and teach obedience rooted in the 'will of God,' rather than relying solely on emotional engagement, fostering a culture of steadfast commitment.
• Leaders are called to champion a genuinely inclusive evangelism, actively challenging any internal biases or practices that subtly 'colonize' rather than 'evangelize' 'all nations.'
• Developing a robust teaching ministry is not merely an option but a core process for 'making disciples,' requiring consistent and intentional instruction in the Word.
• Empowerment comes through conscious reliance on Christ's promised presence and power; leaders should cultivate a deep awareness of this divine partnership in every aspect of the church's mission.

1. How might my personal spiritual walk prioritize 'feelings' over the 'will' of God, and what practical steps can I take to cultivate a spirit of consistent obedience?
2. In what ways might my church or ministry unintentionally narrow the 'prospects' of the Gospel, and how can we genuinely embrace and evangelize 'all nations,' rather than simply 'colonizing' those who are 'like us'?
3. Am I actively bearing fruit in my life, and how effectively am I engaged in the Master's purpose of making disciples in my sphere of influence?
4. Considering the Master's promise 'Lo, I am with you, always,' how does recognizing Christ's constant presence and power impact my willingness to 'go' and fulfill His commission, especially when facing challenges?

This sermon reinforces a timeless truth—the Great Commission remains the Church's unchanging mandate. Its impact lies in re-centering the listener on the core identity and mission of the true Church, challenging convenient deviations and emotional excuses. Dr. Lewis's clear articulation of discipleship and his call for universal evangelism serve as a powerful legacy, guiding future generations to faithfully pursue Christ's global purpose, relying on His unwavering presence and power.