The Relationship Between Going and Being in the Great Commission

    The Relationship Between Going and Being in the Great Commission In Michael Goheen's A Light to the Nations, he emphasizes that mission is fundamentally about being rather than merely going. This distinction is critical when examining the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20), where Jesus instructs His disciples to "go therefore and make disciples of all nations." At first glance, this appears to be a directive centered on the act of going; however, when we delve deeper, we see that the essence of the Commission revolves around the identity and character of those who are called to go. Going vs. Being and the Great Commission The act of "going" in the Great Commission can often be misunderstood as a call for geographic relocation or missionary work in distant lands. However, Goheen argues that the mission of God is primarily about embodying His presence and character wherever one is situated. This means that whether at home, work, or abroad, Christians are called to live out their faith authentically, showcasing the light of Christ in their everyday interactions. Thus, "being" becomes an integral part of "going," as our witness is rooted in our identity as followers of Christ. When Jesus commands His followers to make disciples, He emphasizes teaching them to observe all that He has commanded (Matthew 28:20). This discipleship process is predicated not just on evangelism but also on nurturing and living out the transformative power of the Gospel within communities. Therefore, as believers embrace their identity in Christ, they naturally become agents of His mission—wherever they are. The Church as an Eschatological People The concept of the church as an eschatological people refers to its role as a community that lives in anticipation of God's ultimate fulfillment of His promises. In Goheen’s framework, this means that the church is not merely a gathering of individuals but rather a foretaste of God’s Kingdom on earth. The church embodies the values of this Kingdom—justice, peace, reconciliation—while awaiting its complete realization at Christ’s return. Being an eschatological people encourages believers to act as heralds of hope in a broken world. It informs their mission as they engage with societal issues, proclaiming the Gospel while also demonstrating its implications through acts of love and justice. This dual role of proclamation and demonstration becomes a powerful witness to the world. God's Purpose from the Beginning Observing God's call to Abram in Genesis 12, we see that His intention was always larger than Israel alone; it was about blessing all nations through His chosen people. Goheen notes that God’s purpose has always been missional—calling people to Himself not just for their benefit but so they might become a conduit of His blessings to others (Goheen, 75). The choice of Israel was not an end but a means to reveal God's character and plan for humanity. From the outset, God demonstrated that His mission would extend beyond a singular nation, aiming for global redemption. This missional thread runs through Scripture and culminates in Jesus’ Great Commission, reaffirming that God's heart has always been for every tribe, tongue, and nation. Summary and Opinion In summary, understanding mission as both going and being enriches our interpretation of the Great Commission and highlights the church’s role as an eschatological community. I agree with Goheen's assertion that our identity shapes our mission. As churches engage their communities—in both word and deed—they reflect God's character and draw others into His story. Reflecting on my own experiences in ministry, I have seen how churches often focus heavily on outreach programs without fostering a culture of being Christ-like in their communities. While outreach is essential, it must stem from a deep-rooted identity in Christ. This holistic understanding can lead to more sustainable and impactful ministry. Application In applying these insights to real-world contexts, local churches can develop programs that not only aim to reach out but also emphasize building authentic relationships within their communities. Discipleship should extend beyond Sunday services into everyday life, helping members understand their role as ambassadors for Christ in their workplaces, schools, and neighborhoods. Moreover, addressing societal issues such as poverty and injustice can be seen not just as charitable acts but as a reflection of God’s Kingdom values. This approach results in a more profound impact and aligns with God’s original purpose for His people. Innovation As I contemplate innovative ideas for future ministry practices, I envision creating discipleship models that leverage technology to foster community engagement. Virtual small groups can provide platforms for discussions on living out faith in various contexts while fostering accountability and growth. Additionally, organizing collaborative projects with local organizations focused on social justice can help embody the church’s eschatological mission while demonstrating God’s love practically. Such initiatives can cultivate a culture of being witnesses for Christ—an essential part of fulfilling the Great Commission in today’s world. In conclusion, embracing the dual concepts of going and being allows us to fulfill our calling more effectively as agents of God’s mission. By understanding our identity in Christ and living it out within our communities, we can bring light to the nations and participate actively in God's redemptive work.

Sample Answer