**Interview with Matthew: Insights from the Great Commission**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Matthew. Your gospel has profoundly impacted countless lives. Could you share with us a pivotal moment that reflects your understanding of Jesus’ authority?
**Matthew:** Absolutely. One of the most important moments in my account is found at the end of my gospel, where Jesus approaches His disciples after His resurrection. It was a remarkable time. I remember the atmosphere was charged with disbelief and awe. Jesus came to them, and I remember the weight of His words.
**Interviewer:** What did He say that was so significant?
**Matthew:** He began with a powerful declaration: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” This statement was monumental! It underscored not just His divine authority but also His position as the ultimate authority over all creation. It resonated deeply with us, especially after everything we had witnessed during His ministry—His miracles, teachings, and the ultimate sacrifice He made.
**Interviewer:** After proclaiming His authority, what did Jesus instruct His disciples to do?
**Matthew:** He commanded us to “go therefore and make disciples of all nations.” This call was extraordinary, as it expanded beyond the Jewish community to invite all nations into this new covenant. It was a charge to actively engage, teach, and baptize in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
**Interviewer:** How did you feel about the idea of reaching nations and baptizing people in this new faith?
**Matthew:** I felt both honored and overwhelmed. The task was daunting, yet thrilling. To think that we were to extend this message of hope and salvation to everyone, irrespective of their backgrounds, was revolutionary. Jesus emphasized how crucial it was to teach them to observe all that He commanded, ensuring the essence of His teachings would be passed down.
**Interviewer:** That’s a monumental mission. Did Jesus offer any reassurance to you and the other disciples as you embarked on this journey?
**Matthew:** Yes, He concluded His directive with a profound promise: “And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” This assurance anchored us. The mission was vast, but knowing that Jesus would be with us provided immense comfort and strength. It reaffirmed our purpose and calmed our fears as we prepared to step out into the unknown.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like this moment was pivotal, not just for you but for the early church as well.
**Matthew:** Indeed, it was transformative! The Great Commission encapsulates the heart of Jesus’ message and the essence of our mission as His followers. Sharing hope, teaching love, and making disciples remains as relevant today as it did back then. It’s a call to action for all of us.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Matthew, for sharing these insights. It’s clear that your experience with Jesus has left an indelible mark on the world.
**Matthew:** Thank you for having me! It’s my hope that everyone finds the same truth and love I encountered through Him.