In Matthew chapter 28:18-20, Jesus give issues a direct command to those who would follow Him. They were to go into all the world and make disciples. Even while enduring much suffering they denied the strict orders of the Jewish council and filled Jerusalem with the Gospel of Jesus (Acts 5:27-29). Further in the book of acts we read that even when persecution came and they were scattered abroad they were not deterred but “went about preaching the word” (Acts 8:4). Imagine the persecution happened from house to house and those found guilty were dragged to prison. Despite the difficulties and physical harm they chose to stand up and boldly declare that the gospel.

Despite being scattered and persecuted the early church felt keenly the responsibility to make known the gospel of Christ. They, even though persecuted and scattered to a strange place, focused on the reality that the whole world was lost in sin (1 John 5:19) and that only Christ could save (Acts 4:12) so they had to preach Christ. They also would have been aware of Ezekiel’s warning and recognize that their own salvation depended on their active involvement in bringing the lost to Christ (Ezekiel 33:8-9). We can also imagine that the dreadful pronouncement by God on Meroz (Judges 5:23) would have been known also and that all the well thinking among the people of God would be guided by it.

As children of God today we have the same command, same responsibility and stand to suffer the same consequences if we fail to do as God expects. We may not all have the same role, but we all have a role to play (Ephesians 4:11). Our great blessing is that we do not face or need to fear persecution in doing these things. TODAY, we can teach Jesus without fear using any and all Godly, effective methods.

What better time to recommit to our savior and this task than now. Now when we are at the beginning of a new year; when we are just days from a gospel meeting; when we are just a few short months from another medical mission; when Jesus commands and expects us to; when we can.

TODAY!